CBCP lauds anti-death penalty solons’ acceptance of ouster from committee leadership

CBCP President Archbishop Socrates Villegas commended the members of the House of Representatives, who were eventually ousted from their respective committees for opposing the controversial measure. (Photo: Socrates B. Villegas/Facebook)

MANILA—The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) admired the actions taken by lawmakers for voting against the passage of House Bill No. 4727 also known as the death penalty bill.

CBCP President Archbishop Socrates Villegas commended the members of the House of Representatives, who were eventually ousted from their respective committees for opposing the controversial measure.

“The CBCP is in admiration of the members of the House of Representatives who willingly accepted ouster from their positions in the Chamber because of abiding by their conviction against the death penalty,” he said in a statement.

The Lingayen-Dagupan prelate added, “They have, in their own way, proclaimed the Gospel of Life, and the Lord of Life shall be their reward.”

On Wednesday, the Lower House has declared vacant the posts of 12 lawmakers who voted against the death penalty bill.

Among those who have been replaced are: former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, deputy speaker; Committe chairs Batangas Rep. Vilma Santos-Recto, civil service and professional regulation; Sorsogon Rep. Evelina Escudero, basic education and culture; Quezon City Rep. Jose Christopher Belmonte, land use; Amin Rep. Sitti Turabin-Hataman, Muslim affairs; Dinagat Islands Rep. Kaka Bag-ao, people participation; Buhay Rep. Mariano Michael Velarde, Jr., overseas workers affairs.

Also removed were: Gabriella Rep. Emmi de Jesus, poverty alleviation; Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarte, natural resources; ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio, public information; Batanes Rep. Henedina Abad, government reorganization; and Diwa Rep. Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, women and gender equality.

On March 7, the death penalty bill was passed on third and final reading at the House of Representatives in a vote of 217 in favor, 54 against and one abstained.