Davao, government threatens bishop: Anyone who helps farmers will be punished

With a letter signed by Cotabato governor authorities threaten Methodist prelate Ciriaco Francisco for protecting and assisting "illegal demonstrators". Last week a protest organized by about 6 thousand farmers ended with police opening fire: two dead and dozens injured.

Manila (AsiaNews / CBCP) - The Cotabato provincial government has threatened to take the Methodist bishop of Kidapawan to court, accused of hiding some farmers who fled clashes with police last April 1 in his church.

A letter signed by Cotabato govoner Emmylou “Lala” J. Talino-Mendoza stated that the bishops’ action “of harboring these protesters is punishable by law. We might be constrained to take legal actions against you unless your cooperation with us in addressing this issue formally and legally". The bishop, Ciriaco Francisco of United Methodist Church, did not comment.

The violence erupted on April 1 after days of protests and demonstrations by about 6 thousand farmers. These, for the most part of Lumad ethnicity, demanded more decisive government action against drought caused by El Nino and accused the authorities of having diverted funds meant for the farmers. In response several departments of riot police were deployed: the overall toll from the violence is two dead and dozens injured.

The Philippines Bishops' Conference and the Redemptorists of Manila have strongly condemned these acts, defined as "criminal" and "unacceptable." Their condemnation has been echoed by rural Missionaries of the Philippines, which in a statement point the finger at the Aquino government: "We believe the executive responsible for this terrible act. The farmers are affected by drought and driven by desperation, they are seeking help. In return they are rewarded with violence".

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