BUC takes steps to free Fr. Chito, other hostages

The Bishop Ulama Conference (BUC) has taken steps to free a priest, lay leaders and workers of St. Mary’s Cathedral from the Maute Terror Group in Marawi.

Archbishop Emeritus Fernando Capalla said that he felt the need to take action when he saw the video of Father Suganob that has gone viral who was appealing in tears and delivering the demands of his captors.

However, Capalla who was once served the Dioceses of Marawi and Iligan, reminded everyone not to respond Violence with Violence itself.

As a Christian, Capalla added, one should promote peace and love, “that being Christians we will not be afraid because with our faith, (we believe) that Christ is in our midst.”

On the declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao, Archbishop Capalla compared the difference between the Martial Law under the Marcos regime and the Martial Law being implemented today.

“Before the rights of the people were not respected; the media lost their right to inform the public; but today we have the freedom of speech,” he added.

He even recalled that the old Martial Law made him cower in fear upon hearing that he is one of those who were targeted to be arrested, “When my friend was arrested, I hid in the convent of Jaro in Iloilo.”

Capalla explained that he does not oppose the implementation of martial law under the Duterte administration it does not mean that he totally supports it and defers any further comment.