Australians air support for Patricia Fox who angered Duterte

MANILA, Philippines — Australians are taking part in a signature campaign to call on the Philippine government to take back its order for Sister Patricia Fox to leave the country.

Fox is a 71-year-old Australian nun from the Congregation of the Sisters of Sion. She was ordered last April 25 to leave the Philippines within 30 days for “engaging in activities that are not keeping in terms of her missionary visa.”

Last month, an angry President Duterte said Fox had a “shameful mouth” and that he ordered immigration officials to investigate her.

The Movement Against Tyranny (Australia), International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines and Migrante Australia initiated the signature campaign to call on authorities not to deport Fox.

“Sister Pat’s principles of compassion for the poor, and respect for their dignity and rights contrast with the unlawful killings under the administration of President Duterte, and his vocal threats against defenders of human rights and the rule of law,” the groups said.

The signature campaign has gathered nearly 500 signatures, with more signatures expected, they said.