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DAVAO Archbishop Romulo Valles on Tuesday, March 18, urged the faithful to uphold justice with fairness and integrity while fostering unity in the face of national division spawned by former president Rodrigo Duterte's arrest.
Valles acknowledged the deep divide among Filipinos following Duterte's arrest, describing the situation as "a critical moment for the nation."
The archbishop called for healing and solidarity, recognizing the pain and frustration felt across the country, including the victims of the war on drugs campaign of Duterte.
"Justice, however, must be pursued with fairness and integrity. It must remain free from partisan political motivations or personal vendettas," said Valles.
Valles also emphasized the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence, urging the government to adhere to the rule of law to ensure that peace prevails.
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To reinforce the church's commitment to justice, Valles cited prophet Micah's words in (Micah 6:8) which read as follows: "What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"
The archbishop also called on the people of Davao to reject hatred and division, and instead chose dialogue and reconciliation, as he underscored the Church's mission to safeguard human dignity and promote peace during these turbulent times.
"At this critical moment in our nation's history, let us turn to prayer, seeking God's mercy and guidance of the Holy Spirit," he urged.
The message concluded with an appeal to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, to intercede for the country and lead it toward justice and lasting peace.
Duterte was arrested on March 11 by the Philippine National Police and Interpol on charges of crimes against humanity during his war on drugs campaign. The charges were filed before the International Criminal Court.
