De Lima: Honor fathers killed in drug war

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Leila de Lima has urged the public to honor the memories of fathers who were killed under the Duterte administration’s war on drugs and pray for the families that they have left behind.

“As we celebrate Fathers’ Day, we pray for unity, respect and understanding with other people. For those like me who miss our exemplary fathers, let’s continue to make our fathers an inspiration in taking care of our families,” De Lima said.

She is the daughter of the late Commission on Elections commissioner Vicente de Lima.

She said she hoped the occasion would remind everyone of the importance of love, respect and unity.

 “Let us also pray for the fathers and their families who were killed with impunity, especially the innocents who were dragged in this fake war on drugs by the Duterte regime,” she said.

 De Lima said since Duterte launched his war on drugs in 2016, more than 22,000 people have been killed without being accorded their right to a day in court.

 She also asked Filipinos to pray for the slain priests who, in their own ways, served as fathers in their parishes and churches.

 De Lima cited Fathers Richmond Nilo, Mark Ventura and Marcelito Paez, who were shot dead by unidentified assailants on motorcycles.