We are saddened by the bloody incident last Thursday, 22 January 1987. We deplore the use of violence in the confrontation.
We commend those who died to the loving mercy of God our Father. We pray for strength for their bereaved families. For those who are still in hospitals and clinics, we ask the Lord for their speedy recovery.
As the investigation is being conducted by men of integrity and competence, we appeal for sobriety, restraint and patience. We also appeal to everyone to refrain from irresponsible comments and destructive rumormongering. We have hopes that truth will come out and justice will be done to those concerned.
For the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines:
(Sgd.)RICARDO J. CARDINAL VIDAL
Archbishop of Cebu
President
January 26, 1987