MANILA (SE): The Conference of Major Superiors in the Philippines [CMSP] reaffirmed its commitment to the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines [RMP] as its mission partner in helping the rural poor, CBCPNews reported on October 28.
“We stand by the dedicated and committed RMP members who are working in various mission areas in the peripheries,” the CMSP said in a statement released on October 27.
Sixteen people, including nuns, of the congregation face charges of allegedly soliciting funds for the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People’s Army, and violating the country’s anti-terrorism law; charges that have been strongly denied [Sunday Examiner, August 21 and 28].
“All these allegations and charges were not based on solid evidence and have demonised the works of our religious congregation,” the Rural Missionaries said in an August 18 statement.
The Conference of Major Superiors said it was “gravely concerned” about the safety and well being of the accused, and the integrity of Rural Missionaries’ ministry to the poor, CBCPNews reported.
“In like manner, we trust and assure the four consecrated women who are implicated and indicted of our unwavering support and solidarity,” it added.
“RMP has served as a beacon of light to poor farmers and tillers of the land and has unswervingly journeyed with the rural poor in their struggles and hopes for a just, humane and peaceful society,” the CMSP said.
