The General Secretary of the South African Council of Churches (SACC), Mr. Eddie Makue, expressed profound shock and grief over the brutal murder of Bishop Alberto Ramento, the former Prime Bishop of the Philippine Independent Church.

Bishop Ramento was found stabbed to death on 3 October in the rectory of his church in Tarlac, Philippines, roughly 100 km north of the capital, Manila. Initial reports identified the homicide as robbery-related, but there has been speculation in ecumenical circles that Bishop Ramento's murder may have been political motivated. The Bishop was known as an outspoken advocate of the rights of the poor and oppressed who was often critical of the Filipino government's human rights record. He was also a committed proponent of the ecumenical movement, having served as both Chair of the National Council of Churches in the Philippines and Co-chair of the Ecumenical Bishops' Forum.

Bishop Ramento's death is the latest in a series of murders of Christian leaders and human rights activists in the Philippines that has claimed 17 lives over the past two years.

"The SACC joins with colleagues around the world in mourning the death of this prophetic and beloved leader," said Mr. Eddie Makue, the Council's General Secretary. "We urge the government of the Philippines to ensure that those responsible for these vicious crimes are brought to justice. We extend our prayers, condolences and solidarity to the Philippine Independent Church and the people of the Philippines who have lost a great and humble shepherd. We pray that Bishop Ramento's life and work will inspire others to redouble their efforts to combat poverty and injustice and to ensure that all of God's children are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve."

For additional material on Bishop Ramento, see:
Iglesia Filipina Independiente
IFI Statement on the Killing of Bishop Ramento
Anglican Communion News Service Article on Bishop Ramento

For more information contact: Mr. Eddie Makue, 082 853 8781