10/04/2018 Philippines (International Christian Concern) – Yesterday marked the 12-year anniversary of the death of Bishop Alberto Ramento. Bishop Alberto Ramento, part of the Philippine Independent Church, was murdered on October 3rd in 2006. His body was discovered with six stab wounds inside his rectory, in Tarlac city.
The case has been investigated, but there have been no suspects or culprits in the case. Authorities claim that his death was a case of robbery, which results in homicide but the family disagrees. They believe that his death was related to his work in human rights advocacy.
The late bishop was the leader of many faith-based movements and groups, in addition to being the chairman of the National Council of Churches in the Philippines. He was an outspoken political leader and advocated for fair labor laws for the farming community.
Bishop Joel Porlares, the church’s general secretary said that the late bishop was “a missionary who stood for the poor and the oppressed.” Similarly, Father Jonash Johojoy said that the bishop “was killed because he chose to fight for the rights of people who were neglected.”
Alberto Ramento II, the late Bishops son said that they “will not stop fighting until Justice is served” not only for his father but “also for the other victims of extra-judicial killings in the country.”
The Ecumenical Bishop’s Form is calling on the government to address the unresolved murders, including that of Bishop Alberto Ramento.
interviews with Gina Goh, ICC’s Regional Manager, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: press@persecution.org.
