Last May 21, 2017 (Sunday), the University of Santo Tomas welcomed the Lakbay Buhay advocates who continued their call for the members of the Senate to junk the re-imposition of the death penalty in the Philippines.
Dear Senators
During the advocacy program, representatives from various sectors–such as farmers, the urban poor, and Church organizations–called on each senator who has either confirmed support or has not yet publicly revealed his/her stance on the death penalty to denounce the re-imposition and instead focus on more vital and prosperity-related legislation. Among the urgent priorities were support for agriculture, quality education, housing, and job generation.
Like-minded legislators
During the program, three senators publicly declared their opposition to the bill: Senators Risa Hontiveros, Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, and Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes. Meanwhile, detained Senator Leila de Lima conveyed a message to the community through her brother.
Using the Bible
In his homily, Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo, D.D. warned against those who use the Bible as defense for the re-imposition of death penalty, saying that they may not have correctly understood its teachings. “Jesus Christ’ love is our standard, and the Bible is very clear about that,” said Bishop Pabillo.
The Mass, officiated by Most Rev. Pablo David, D.D., Bishop of Kalookan, gathered the faithful from different parts of the country, most notably those who began the Lakbay Buhay journey in Cagayan de Oro.
