Lay pastoral coordinator murdered in Philippines (Fides)

Unknown assailants shot and killed Eduardo Balindres, a lay pastoral coordinator for a parish in Matalam, Philippines, on August 31.

Bishop José Colin Mendoza Bagaforo of Kidapawan condemned the killing and urged against seeking revenge. The bishop stated that those responsible for the murder must face legal consequences through the proper justice system.

Matalam is located in a region where both Communist and Islamist rebels have been active.