Caritas Philippines has reached out to Pope Francis for a Jubilee blessing for political prisoners on Negros Island and urged the Philippine government to improve justice and clemency efforts.
The social action arm of the Catholic Church issued the appeal in line with the 2025 Jubilee Year, themed ‘Pilgrims of Hope,’ with a focus on supporting marginalized groups.
“We cannot turn a blind eye to this grave concern,” said Bishop Gerardo Alminaza, vice president of Caritas Philippines.
The prelate emphasized the need for action amid rising tensions and reported human rights violations against political prisoners in Negros Island.
The request for a papal blessing from Pope Francis symbolizes hope for those unjustly detained. Caritas Philippines also called on the government to embrace the Jubilee spirit of mercy and justice, advocating for the release of prisoners and better prison conditions.
Bishop Alminaza pointed to the universal nature of human rights, reflecting Pope Francis’s views. “In the face of adversity, it is imperative that we stand united to condemn injustice and promote the common good,” he urged, calling for an investigation into the human rights issues on Negros Island.
Caritas Philippines urged the government to prioritize human rights and justice for the accused. The organization called on authorities and civil society to listen to the oppressed and collaborate toward a peaceful and just resolution of conflicts, aiming to create a society where everyone can thrive.
