CBCP: Help cops vs terror

A ranking official of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) urged the public to be prayerful and vigilant following the arrest of a leader and member of the Maute group in Manila on Sunday.

Fr. Jerome Secillano said people should also do their part in the war on terror by being watchful for suspicious activities and helping law enforcers.

Secillano, executive secretary of CBCP’s permanent committee on public affairs, said law enforcers should “tighten security.” “They should be more visible in public,” he said.

“The public should be vigilant lest we become victims of possible terror acts,” he said.

The statement came after police announced the arrest of Maute leader Nasser Lamondot, alias Muhamad Lamondot, and member Rizasalam Lamondot.

Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo agreed with Secillano’s appeal for prayers and vigilance against terrorism.

“In our time now we should always be vigilant because there are always groups who are out to make trouble,” said Pabillo, chair of CBCP’s Commission on the Laity.

“We pray that days of prayer and penance be respected by all,” he said. —Julie M. Aurelio