Bishop slams slay of lawyer, calls for end to killings on Negros Island

BACOLOD CITY –– San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza of Negros Occidental called for an end to the killings on Negros Island, as he denounced the killing of lawyer Anthony Trinidad.

“We lost another defender of justice,” he said in a pastoral letter.

“End the killings is the collective cry among us here living on Negros Island. This is the appeal not only of families of farmers, activists, lawyers, rebels, soldiers, police, whose family member has become a victim of summary execution; but also of ordinary citizens who are longing for peace,” he added.

Alminaza said the church was offering prayers for the repose of Trinidad’s soul.

“The ambiance of fear and violence must end. We reiterate the call for integral peace – one that addresses social injustice and promotes economic equality and inclusive development for all that will benefit the country and future generations.”

Trinidad, 53, was driving his white Subaru when the assailants onboard a motorcycle suddenly drove by him.

The backrider drew a pistol and shot Trinidad and his wife Novie Marie.

The couple was rushed to the Guihulngan District Hospital, but the attending physician declared Trinidad dead on arrival.

Novie Marie survived despite her injuries. /lzb