The Archdiocese of Davao called for fairness, dignity, and unity among Filipinos following the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Archbishop Romulo G. Valles said in a statement that as the nation stands at a crossroads, deeply divided over the arrest of the former president and his subsequent transfer to The Hague to await trial the event has strained relationships and now challenges the unity as a people.
“In this time of uncertainty and discord, the Catholic Church remains stcadfast as a beacon of faith, hope, and charity. United as one people, we recognize the pain and frustration felt across the land, including the suffering of those who consider themselves victims of injustice in the past. While we affirm the importance of accountability. we also extend our pastoral support and prayers to the former President and his family; he being a son of this local Church, so beloved by a vast number of our faithful,” Valles said.
The archbishop emphasized that justice, however, must be pursued with fairness and integrity.
He also underscored that justice must remain free from partisan political motivations or personal vendettas.
Valles also urges the government to uphold due process, adhere to the rule of law, and respect the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence.
“Only through such commitment to justice can true peace be achieved. As the prophet Micah exhorts us: “What does the Lord require of y ou but to do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” he said.
Valles reminded that the mission of the Church of preaching the Gospel urges everyone to uphold truth, safeguard human dignity, and promote the common good.
“We therefore call upon you, our faithful here in the archdiocese, to reject hatred and division, choosing instead the path of dialogue over discord, and reconciliation over conflict,” he said.
He also urged the Filipinos at this critical moment in thr nation’s history, to pray, seek God’s mercy and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
“May the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, intercede for us and lead our country toward genuine justice and lasting peace,” he said.
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