Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Cotabato (Fides Service) - As a Religious Congregation present for over 65 years in Mindanao, in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, the Oblate Missionaries of Mary Immaculate (OMI) express “surprise” for the new explosion of violence in many parts of the southern Philippines causing terror, death, destruction and exodus of people. Superior Provincial Fr Ramon Barnabe told Fides in a message. The missionaries say the new outbreak of violence cancels the promises and efforts of the local and national government, international agencies and civil society, to promote peace in the area after decades of conflict, describing these new events as “unjust and devastating”.
The Oblate missionaries say “we stand by civilians suffering the consequences of the catastrophe. Once again their hope for a better life has been disappointed. The light of a more peaceful place for their children has been smothered once more by the darkness of hostilities”.
The Missionaries say the army must stop its attacks and public authorities must find peaceful ways to meet the claims of the people in the southern Philippines.
The OMI document calls in particular for a careful investigation on the causes of the recent clashes, the return of the dispersed families to their homes, the rebuilding of damaged infrastructures and services, a revision of the 1996 agreement, for law-breakers to be brought to justice and they welcome and support all initiatives to promote non violence and reconciliation.
The Missionary Oblates endorse their commitment to pray and work for peace and harmony in the region.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 12/4/2005 righe 23 parole 248)
