Philippines: Bishop condemns killing of priest

Bishop Roberto Mallari of San Jose has condemned the killing of 72 year old Fr. Marcelito “Tito” Paez, on Monday evening. 

“We strongly condemn the unjust and brutal killing of Fr. Tito Paez,” Bishop Mallari said. “We called on the authorities to conduct investigation and give justice to his death.”

Fr. Paez who actively involved himself in social justice advocacy, particularly on human rights issues affecting the poor was ambushed by four men in two motorcycles at about 8pm while he was driving his vehicle in Jaen town.

Fr. Paez served the diocese of San Jose for more than 30 years since its erection in 1984. He retired from priestly ministry in 2015. He also worked for the social action commission of the diocese and led the justice and peace office.  Currently he was the coordinator of the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines in Central Luzon.

On the day he was killed, Fr. Paez had facilitated the release of a political prisoner Rommel Tucay who was detained at a jail in Cabanatuan City since March. (CBCP)