Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Manila (Agenzia Fides) – The Catholic community is called to defend fundamental human rights, in the Philippines and beyond. The lesson of Blessed Duns Scotus is useful in reminding us that “every person is unique, in every time and in eternity,” thus, no man can be subordinated or eliminated for questions of “national security.” This is what is being promoted by the Franciscans of the Philippines, who are increasingly concerned at the lack of respect for human rights on the islands.
For over three years, the Republic has seen an increase in illegal executions, which is obviously an intimidating prospect, especially in terms of the harm done to lawyers, judges, political activists, journalists, union leaders, and religious. The phenomenon has been placed in focus in recent years by public opinion and international organizations.
The Filipino organization “Karapatan” (“Alliance for the improvement of people's rights) in their Human Rights Report 2008 reveals alarming statistics. In the first 10 months of 2008, there were 50 murders, 7 shootings, 53 cases of torture, and 123 illegal arrests. In a period of 7 years and 10 months, the government of Gloria Arroyo has registered 977 victims of extra-judicial executions, 201 people shot, 1,010 victims of torture, and 1,464 illegal arrests.
Independent observers like the Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) of Hong Kong has asked the Government in Manila to take adequate measures in stopping the homicides and providing the country with an acceptable standard in respect for fundamental human rights. The organization notes that there is a disturbing climate of impunity and continual threats are made to magistrates and lawyers, making the Philippines a more insecure nation in which rights are endangered and there is a breakdown in principles of freedom and legality, pillars in any democratic system.
Franciscan friar John Robert Abada, OFM says that traditional Franciscan thought, in the spirit of Blessed Duns Scotus' reflection, offers a clear response to this phenomenon. The Social Doctrine of the Church also mentions that “every man is a unique and unrepeatable being.” This uniqueness makes each person deserving of respect from other men, especially on the part of social and political institutions. “As Franciscans, we raise our voice against these extra-judicial executions and the shootings,” the friar explained, as they are signs of lack of respect towards the lives of many human beings. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 14/1/2009)
