Bishops thumb down guns for priests

MANILA, Philippines - The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said yesterday it stands firm against arming priests for self-defense despite the signing of a gun control law that allows them to secure firearms for their protection.

Church officials said that all priests are called to imitate Christ who rejected the use of weapons in his own defense.

“Our vocation and role in the transformation of society as priests is different. Our security is more on what we do, how we interact and live with people,” Cubao, Quezon City Bishop Honesto Ongtioco said.

According to Malolos Bishop Jose Oliveros, priests are also called to be pacifists.

“We should not counter violence with violence. Priests are supposed to be men of peace and not war,” Oliveros said.

“Priests must be non-violent. We get our protection from the holy angels – not weapons,” said Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes.

The Catholic bishops issued the reactions after President Aquino last week signed a gun control law that, while it set restrictions on people allowed to be issued guns, also allowed individuals whose occupation or business puts them in danger to secure a license to own firearms.

Malacañang said the law provides stricter guidelines on securing a license after a series of high-profile deaths this year.

The gun control law mandates that those seeking to own firearms will have to undergo psychiatric and drug tests and should not have a criminal record.