Corporate interests, paramilitaries suspected in priest's slaying in Philippines
January 02, 2012
Although 2 men have been arrested for the October 17 murder of Father Fausto Tentorio in the Mindanao province of the Philippines, the people ultimately responsible for his death remain unidentified, according to a ask force investigating the killing.
Corrupt politicians and corporate leaders are under suspicion of ordering the priest’s assassination. A colleague of the slain missionary says that the witnesses are reluctant to come forward because they fear retribution. Father Tentorio was an outspoken opponent of energy projects that were backed by powerful local interests.
Another factor in the killing, Fides reports, could be the presence of paramilitary groups in the region. These groups have been formed, often with the help of the government’s troops, to counter rebels in Mindanao.
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Further information:
- The people behind Fr.Tentorio’s murder: investigation concerning the corruption of politicians and military (Fides)
- Philippines: suspect arrested in October murder of missionary priest (CWN, 12/29)
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