‘Pray for families of fallen soldiers, for justice’

Amid the slew of questions left unanswered in the aftermath of the massacre of 44 police commandos in Mamasapano town, Maguindanao, the Filipino people should pray for the families and not call for all-out war in Mindanao.

“I’ve seen faces of bereaved family members who are in a quandary as to what really happened. I’ve heard them asking questions. But I, myself, am also confused. I am not content with the answers that were given to us. And I hope the government will get to the bottom of this,” said Bishop Leopoldo Tumulak following the deaths of 44 police commandos in a clash in Mamasapano town, Maguindanao last week.

Instead of pointing fingers, Tumulak, head of the Military Ordinariate of the Philippines, called on Filipinos to pray for the slain members of the PNP Special Action Force (SAF) and their respective families.

Tumulak, a native of Santander town in Cebu, presided over a Mass after the remains of the slain cops arrived at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City last Friday.

He said he could feel the pain of those who lost their loved ones in the gunfight.

“It’s time to be quiet. Let us pray for them. It’s just so painful. They have many questions to God.  I understand them. I hope justice will prevail and those who are responsible should answer for this,” the bishop said.

Cebu Gov. Hilario Davide III and Dumanjug Mayor Nelson Garcia also appealed for calm after meeting with the families of slain SAF members Windell Candano and PO1 Romeo Cempron.

“An all-out war is not a solution. The peace process must continue,” Davide said.

At least 392 SAF troops stormed the camp of Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir (alias Marwan) to arrest him and his Filipino deputy, Basit Usman.

However, the police commandos were overpowered allegedly by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and the Moro Islamic Liberaation Front. Marwan and 44 police officers died in the incident. Bishop Tumulak said an in-depth investigation is needed to prevent a repeat of what had happened.

“If there would be an all-out war then there will be more than 44 men that might be killed. We are taught by the Bible to turn the other cheek. I just want to ask our government to ensure that justice prevails,” he said.