CABANATUAN CITY – The Diocese of Cabanatuan on Thursday pressed for “justice and truth” on the recent killing of a Catholic teacher.
In a statement signed by Bishop Prudencio Andaya, Jr. the diocese expressed “profound sorrow over the tragic death” of Mark Chistian N. Malaca, a ” devoted teacher” of St. Stephen’s Academy in Laur, Nueva Ecija last Nov. 4 .
As the Church firmly teaches that human life is sacred because it is created in the image
and likeness of God, the diocese said “Every act of violence against life is a grave offense against the Creator Himself.”
“As a Catholic teacher, Mr. Malaca participated in the noble mission of forming minds and hearts in truth and virtue. His death is therefore not only a family’s grief but also a loss to the moral fabric of our society,” the statement reads.
They called upon the proper authorities to conduct a swift, impartial, and
transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Malaca’s death.
“Truth must come to light, and those responsible must be held accountable according to law,” it added.
At the same time, the faithful were urged to resist the temptation to respond with anger or vengeance.
“Our prayer is that justice be guided by peace, compassion, and faith in the Lord who said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” We entrust the pursuit of justice to the God of mercy, who alone can heal hearts and restore peace to our wounded society,” the statement said as it called for prayers
“Let us pray for the eternal repose of Mr. Mark Christian N. Malaca, for the consolation of his grieving family, and for the triumph of justice and truth in our land. May the light of Christ shine upon the darkness of violence, and may His peace reign in every heart,” it said
Malaca, a resident of Barangay San Fernando, Laur was gunned down by still.unidentified riding in tandem while driving his motorcycle at about 4:53 pm in in the municipality.
