NEWS RELEASE – October 3, 2006
Reference: Bayan Muna Rep. Joel G. Virador
Contact Number: 931-6166
Bishop’s murder added proof that Melo Commission is toothless -- Virador
 
Bayan Muna Partylist Representative Joel Virador condemned the continuing pattern of extrajudicial killings of progressive personages that has claimed a bishop of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI).
 
“Bayan Muna condemns the brutal murder of IFI Bishop Alberto Ramento in Tarlac at around 4:00 am today. Bishop Ramento is the highest ranking church official killed under this administration. The slain bishop is also further proof that the Melo Commission was not designed to put a stop the political killings,” Rep. Virador said.
 
Ramento was found dead in the living room of his convent in Tarlac province. His body bore at least four stab wounds.
 
As a chairperson of the IFI Supreme Council of Bishops, Ramento helped spur church people’s support for people’s issues. He was also strongly opposed to the politically- motivated murders.
 
“This is what the Macapagal-Arroyo administration wants – to strike fear among clergy who actively take up people’s issues and concerns. We stand firm with our brothers and sisters in the IFI in working for justice to Bishop Ramento and all other victims of extrajudicial killings,” Virador said. #