Mass for slain priest, victims of human rights violations

CEBU, Philippines - Church organizations in key cities in the Visayas will give a tribute to slain priest Cecilio Lucero and other victims of human rights violations through a Holy Mass on December 9, a day before the observance of the International Human Rights Day.

The mass will be offered at 3pm at the Redemptorist Parish Church.

Last September 6, Lucero, a diocesan Roman Catholic priest of the Diocese of Catarman in Northern Samar was brutally murdered by suspected state agents. He was chairman of the Human Rights Desk of the Diocesan Social Action Center.

Until now, however, justice for Lucero remains elusive. A signature campaign has been launched urging those in the religious sector to join hands in searching for truth and justice for the slain priest.

Recently, 57 people, including women and journalists, were massacred in Maguindanao, further escalating the number of victims of senseless killings in the Philippines.

The Association of Major Religious Men Superiors of Cebu, Rural Missionaries of the Philippines - Visayas, Task Force on Urban Conscientization, and the Promotion of Church People‘s Response - Cebu said they continue to grieve on the culture of violence and impunity that is tormenting the country.

Those interested to attend the mass may contact TFUC-AMRSP - Cebu through 412-6903 or Rev. Jessie Primacio through 091764997714. — PR/JMO (THE FREEMAN)