Bishop Prudencio Andaya Jr. of Cabanatuan condemned the killing of a Catholic school teacher in his diocese and called for justice and truth to prevail.
He urged authorities to conduct a “swift, impartial, and transparent” probe into the death of Mark Christian Malaca, a teacher at St. Stephen Academy in Laur town, and to hold those responsible accountable.
“Truth must come to light, and those responsible must be held accountable according to law,” Andaya said in a statement issued Thursday.
Reports said Malaca, 39, was gunned down in the town’s San Fernando village on Nov. 4 in Laur by two men on motorcycle who wore helmets, facemasks and black jackets.
The bishop expressed “profound sorrow” over the teacher’s death, describing it as “a deep wound” to his family, the academic community, and the Church he served.
“As a Catholic teacher, Mr. Malaca participated in the noble mission of forming minds and hearts in truth and virtue,” Andaya said. “His death is therefore not only a family’s grief but also a loss to the moral fabric of our society.”
St. Stephen Academy also issued a statement mourning the death of their colleague and calling for justice.
“This was not only an attack on one person, but also on the dignity of the teaching profession and the very spirit of education,” the school said.
It urged the public to “stand firm for justice, hold the perpetrators accountable, and promote peace and respect for every teacher who serves faithfully.”
“His memory will remain a light and inspiration in our continuing struggle for truth and goodness,” it added.
