1 week ago
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BISHOP Leopoldo Jaucian of Bangued has urged the people to "actively work for peace" amid a surge in what are believed to be politically related killings in the northern province of Abra.
The "senseless violence and bloodshed" in the province is a call for all believers to take an active role in building peace, the bishop said.
"We are called not only to pray for peace but to actively work for it and build it, knowing that every human life is a gift from God — precious, irreplaceable, and deserving of dignity," explained Jaucian.
The bishop stressed that the Christians' response to violence must go beyond prayer and include concrete actions rooted in compassion and respect for life.
In response to the unrest, the bishop had earlier announced a "Walk for Peace" on Wednesday (April 16), and invited the faithful and all peace advocates to gather at St. James the Elder Cathedral.
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"This is not merely a gathering but a testament to our commitment to peace and the sanctity of life," Jaucian said.
He urged the people not to rely on outside intervention to restore peace but to lead the change themselves, beginning with their own communities and families.
"Let the transformation begin with us through our faith. I urge you, dear peace-loving Abrenians (people from Abra), to stand with us, walk with us, and work with us in building a province where harmony triumphs over hatred," he said.
Citing data from Abra Police Provincial Office, the state-run Philippine News Agency earlier reported at least 18 shootings that left 12 dead and 18 injured from Jan. 12 to March 29.
"May the Lord of Peace bless our journey and strengthen our resolve to take every step toward justice, reconciliation, and peace," he concluded.
