The House of Representatives progressive lawmakers filed a bill that seeks to grant Filipino citizenship to Australian missionary Sister Patricia Fox as they highlight her contributions to the Filipino people especially to the oppressed.
The 71- year- old nun was arrested by the Bureau if Immigration due to her alleged engagement in partisan political activities. The latter also issued an order to revoke Sr. Fox’s missionary visa. She appealed to the BI’s order, but this was rejected on May 17.
Taking a stand against the agency’s decision, the Makabayan Bloc, in House Bill 7806, stated that “instead of prosecuting and deporting Sister Pat through false charges, the government should instead recognize and acknowledge her sacrifices in almost three decades,” adding that “granting Filipino Citizenship would be much more than a fitting recognition for her selfless service to the poor and oppressed Filipinos.”
The lawmakers also said in the bill that Fox was accepted by the Filipino communities and was treated as one of their own because she lives and struggles with them.
They added that “she came to understand, experience and embrace the culture and the struggle of the poor Filipino majority” as she lived and served the farmers, indigenous people, and other marginalized people.”
(DAILY NEWS ROUND UP FOR 05/ 30 /18)