03/11/2019 Philippines (International Christian Concern) – Three more Philippine priests have come forward to reveal that they, too, have received death threats, two weeks after Caloocan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David confirmed receiving threatening text messages.
On Monday, priests Albert Alejo, Flavie Villanueva and Robert Reyes revealed death threats they have recently received in a press conference in Quezon city.
Priest Albert Alejo, showcased one of the cellphone messages sent on Feb. 10 with the message, “Your days are numbered you animal.” He quoted another message as saying, “You’ll be celebrating your last Masses because the next Mass for the dead will be for you.”
The priests, who have voiced their opposition to President Duterte’s deadly drug on wars, admitted that they came out because they fear that the death threats might become reality. They are hesitant to seek protection from the police for the law enforcement is behind the anti-drug campaign that has claimed at least 5,000 lives. Instead, they will consider seeking court protection.
Reyes added that while there is no evidence linking Duterte to these threats, his ongoing verbal attacks against church clergy could encourage attacks. In the last 14 months, three priests were murdered, some in broad daylight, and the authorities have not been able to arrest any suspect.
Despite the threats, the three vowed they would not stop their battle against violence, vulgarity, violation of human rights and dignity.
For interviews with Gina Goh, ICC’s Regional Manager, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: press@persecution.org
