Bishop Julito Cortes of Dumaguete called on local authorities to take “decisive steps” against bar establishments he said degrade “human values” following a shooting that killed four people in Negros Oriental.
Cortes issued the statement Tuesday after a shooting in Sibulan town on Jan. 9 that killed a female bar worker and three police officers. The suspect, also a police officer, is in custody.
He said the “painful event” was a stark reminder of the dangers posed by such establishments to “the dignity of persons and the moral fabric of communities.”
The bishop said the establishments contribute to the “degradation of human values and the objectification of persons.”
He urged authorities to promote “wholesome and upright forms of recreation and livelihood.”
The bishop expressed his deep condolences to the victims’ families, offering prayers for the bereaved.
“With profound sorrow, we in the Diocese of Dumaguete mourn the tragic loss of four invaluable lives in this violent shooting,” Cortes said, as he expressed condolences to the victims’ families and offered prayers for the bereaved.
Cortes also called on authorities to ensure justice, prayed for the perpetrator, and urged appropriate psychological and mental health support for law enforcers and public servants so they may “serve with moral clarity.
