CBCP condemns 'evil' killing of Tuguegarao priest Mark Ventura

MANILA, Philippines —The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines on Sunday said it strongly condemns the killing of missionary priest Fr. Mark Ventura.

In a statement, Archbishop Romulo Valles, CBCP president, said they are shocked and in disbelief at Ventura's death.

IN PHOTOS: The dead body of Rev. Fr. Mark Ventura after being gunned down earlier this day. ????Sourced Photo|FB/Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary @PhilippineStar pic.twitter.com/EQ1UOJUWx5

— Kurt Adrian (@KurtAdrianDP) April 29, 2018

Ventura, 37, was shot dead right after saying Mass in Barangay Piña West Gymnasium in Gattaran, Cagayan.

Police said he was shot twice by an unidentified assailant wearing a helmet. The suspect fled on a motorcycle driven by an accomplice.

Ventura was known for his anti-mining advocacies. The police said they have yet to identify the motive for the killing.

“We condemn this evil act!” the CBCP’s statement read.

“We make our appeal to the authorities to act swiftly going after perpertrators of this crime and to bring them justice,” it added.

The CBCP also offered prayers for Ventura, his bereaved family, and the lay faithful of Tuguegarao.

In December 2017, activist priest Fr. Marcelito “Tito” Paez  was also killed in a gun attack in Nueva Ecija. —Rosette Adel with reports from The STAR/Kurt Dela Peña