Break point
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
FOLLOWING is a statement of concern on the burning issue of human trafficking from the Visayas Chapter of the Philippine Federation of Married Catholic Priests, Inc. (PFMCPI):
“I have seen the affliction of my people and have heard their cries…Set My People Free” (Exodus 3:7).
In the Old Testament, the Israelites were “trafficked to” Egypt to work as slaves for Pharaoh. Yahweh sent Moses to lead His people out of slavery to freedom. We believe that until now Yahweh intervenes in the lives of His people. Today, a largely unnoticed trend of modern-day slavery is evidenced by statistics on women and children trafficked for commercial sexual exploitation and forced labor.
We are informed by government and non-government organizations working against trafficking that mass recruitment occurs in our midst, Cebu being a source, transit and destination area. Scores of potential victims are spotted in ports, airports and bus terminals, key transit areas where many are being rescued from potential exploitative work such as prostitution and slave labor.
We, the Visayas Chapter of the Philippine Federation of Married Catholic Priests, Inc., gathered together for our regional convention, reflected on this burning issue of human trafficking in the hope of responding to the challenge of setting people free from all forms of slavery.
We realize that human trafficking is one of the greatest human rights challenges in our times. Driven by a global demand for cheap, docile and vulnerable labor, trafficking has become a reality that deserves serious attention.
We are aware that the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines has already laid down specific pastoral exhortations on such special concerns as the plight of women, children and the rural poor. Yet much more has to be done.
As heads of families and members of our respective communities, we are concerned about the wanton exploitation and violation of the dignity and sacredness of human life, especially of vulnerable women and children.
Moved by our Christian duty, we hereby pledge to use whatever influence and resources we have to support all efforts to stop human trafficking. We call upon our leaders in government, local churches, organizations and families to:
1. Uphold and protect the sacredness of persons and families by improving legislation and promoting programs against human trafficking.
2. Participate actively in campaigns by reporting illegal activities of traffickers and illegal recruiters in our communities.
3. Guarantee people’s basic right to freedom through the conscientious implementation of R.A. 9208 – the Anti Trafficking Law.
We implore the intercession of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph to be with us in this mission.
Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on June 01, 2011.
Source: sunstar.com.ph
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