PCEC Statement on the Current Situation in our Land in the aftermath of the Mamasapano Tragedy
As followers of Jesus Christ, the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches (PCEC) envisions to help transform our nation. Our faith allows us to see a land “where peace, justice and righteousness reign.” Our hope moves us to help build communities “where everyone has a decent standard of living.” Our love compels us to share the Good News of Jesus Christ in a society where every person and every community is free to express and practice their worldviews, while respecting the worldviews of others.
As we face various challenges in our country, especially in the aftermath of the Mamasapano Tragedy, based on our biblical perspectives on truth, mercy, justice and peace we make the following calls:
:: We call for the truth about the Mamasapano Tragedy. We support the on-going investigations by the government, by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and by independent bodies, like the interfaith fact-finding initiative, who would make credible presentation of the facts. We reject the irresponsible conjectures of some sectors who misuse this case for their personal interests. Instead, we expect a truthful, prompt, and just closure of this case that will bring healing to all concerned and to the whole nation.
:: Because we envision a peaceful, long-term social transformation we call on President Benigno S. Aquino III to finish his term. We are concerned that some individuals and groups in our society are using the said Mamasapano Tragedy to call for the resignation of President Aquino. We do not support such call. We call instead on the President to rise above the current situation and to press on toward the goal of a good, transparent, just, and peace-oriented governance.
:: As we hear of the ‘all-out-offensive’ of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) against the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in various parts of Mindanao, we call on all parties to make the safety of civilians their primary concern. These armed clashes have resulted to the displacement of more than 75,000 persons. We are concerned that these might actually escalate into an all-out-war, as is the nature of most armed conflicts. Instead, we support the call for an #AllOutPeace being advanced by various civil society organizations all over Mindanao and throughout the Philippines.
:: We call on both the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to continue the Peace Process. We will continue to discern and process the implications of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) as we help advance the kingdom of God in Mindanao and in our society as a whole. Along with other peace advocates throughout the country, we will continue our active participation in this process through our Peace and Reconciliation Commission.
“Surely his salvation is near those who fear him,
that his glory may dwell in our land.
Love and faithfulness meet together;
righteousness and peace kiss each other.
Faithfulness springs forth from the earth,
and righteousness looks down from heaven.
The Lord will indeed give what is good,
and our land will yield its harvest.
Righteousness goes before him
and prepares the way for his steps.”
Psalm 85
BISHOP NOEL A. PANTOJA
National Director
Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches – PCEC
Philippine Relief and Development Services – Philrads
PCEC is the largest network of evangelical denominations, local churches
and parachurch and missions organizations in the country which seeks to
disciple the Philippines for the Lord Jesus, and thereby help establish a
society where peace, justice and righteousness reign; where everyone has a
decent standard of living; and where Christ is recognized as Lord and Savior of all.
Evangelical Center, 62 Molave Street, Project 3, Quezon City 1102 Philippines
trunk: (632) 913.1655 to 57 / fax: loc. 601
direct: (632) 913.1658