The Catholic bishop of the Prelature of Isabela in Basilan province expressed “pain” over the death of what he described as “a fellow peace advocate.”
“The murder of former Lamitan Mayor Rosita Furigay, Victor George Capistrano, her executive assistant, and Jeneven Bandiala, security guard at Ateneo de Manila University, and wounding of Hannah Rose, daughter of Mayor Furigay on Sunday, July 24 come as a distressing news for many of us in Basilan who knew the former mayor,” read the statement issued by Bishop Leo Dalmao of Isabela.
The prelate said the attack was “disturbing and deplorable,” adding that mayor was an active partner of the local Church in peace building efforts and inter-religious projects.
“Violence does not have a place in our Christian life and in society as a whole,” said Bishop Dalmao. “We uphold the rule of law. We advocate the peaceful and just resolution of all forms of violence,” he said.
The prelate then called for “the swift and just resolution of this case” and for sobriety among the people.
“Let not this incident put to waste the peace we have worked so long and hard for. Rather, let us use this incident to strive harder to live by God’s precepts,” said Bishop Dalmao.
“Our prayers are with you during this difficult time,” he addressed the family of the late mayor.
“We will pray for the healing and recovery of Hannah Rose and God’s loving comfort to all who are in deep sorrow over their loss,” said the bishop.
Former mayor Furigay was shot dead on Sunday afternoon at the Areté complex inside the Ateneo de Manila University campus in Quezon City where she was attending the graduation of her daughter.
Authorities identified the killer as Chao Tiao Yumol, a 38-year-old doctor.
