Pique kin and friends hold walk for justice

CEBU, Philippines - More than a hundred people joined the Walk for Justice for Ellah Joy Pique yesterday from the Pique residence in Barangay Calajo-an in Minglanilla to the Minglanilla plaza in commemoration of her death anniversary.

Pique was kidnapped on February 8, 2011 while she was on her way home from the Calajo-an Elementary School. She was found dead the following day in Barili town.

Renante Pique, the father of the victim, said the activity was organized by the Franciscan Friars of Charity based in Minglanilla.

Brother Peter Hardinico of the Franciscan Friars said the activity was intended to encourage people not to become mum against child abuse and report it to the authorities.

The walk was led by the Pique family and joined by their neighbors and students from the Calajo-an Elementary School and the Bakay National High School.

The family and neighbors of Ellah Joy wore read t-shirts, some brought placards with messages calling for justice.

At 2 p.m. the Pique family attended a Mass held at the Pardo Church in accordance with the termination of the nine-day novena.

After the Mass, the Pique family and neighbors went to the Pardo Cemetery where Ellah Joy is buried.

Ellah Joy’s brother Jess Andre said he missed playing tag with his sister.

The Bakay National High School is also calling for justice for one of their students, a 15-year-old boy.

Hardinico said the boy committed suicide after he was accused of raping a 13-year-old.

Hardinico said they believe the boy was innocent and wants the authorities to investigate the matter. (FREEMAN)