MANILA, Philippines – With the number of slain drug suspects hitting over 200, the Archdiocese of Manila will launch the Huwag Kang Papatay (Don’t Kill) campaign tomorrow, coinciding with President Duterte’s first State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The launch will be capped by a mass at the St. Vincent de Paul Church located at the Adamson University campus on San Marcelino street, Manila.
Relatives of slain drug suspects are invited to attend the 5 p.m. mass, according to Fr. Atilano Fajardo, director of the archdiocese’s public affairs ministry.
Fajardo asked those who would attend the mass to wear either black or white T-shirts, preferably printed with Huwag Kang Papatay.
The campaign aims to condemn the Duterte administration’s all-out war against illegal drugs.
“Let us pray for our brothers who have been killed. Let us pray not only for the SONA, but also for the souls of those who have been killed,” Fajardo said.
The prelate said the launch would be part of the observance of the Year of Mercy, noting it is a good opportunity to show our love to the Lord.
“But with these things happening, we do not see any love because these people are now dead and could no longer ask for apology and opportunity to change their lives,” he said.
Data from the Philippine National Police (PNP) showed that at least 200 drug suspects have been killed from July 1 to 20.
Police have knocked on 61,806 doors of houses of drug suspects, which resulted in the surrender of 114,833 individuals and the arrest of 2,789.