DAVAO CITY, Dec 3, 2009—The Redemptorist Missionaries of the Cebu Province are demanding justice for the victims of the Maguindanao massacre even as they also condemn on what they call as the “barbaric massacre of civilians and journalists.”

In a statement, the Redemptorist said, “the continued existence of political dynasties is one of the root causes of this dastardly crime. Over and above the call for swift and impartial justice, we also call for the dismantling of all political dynasties in Maguindanao and in the whole Philippines.”

“In order to break the above legal impasse, we call for the immediate passing of an enabling law, with provisions that give teeth for its uncompromising implementation for the whole country,” added the statement.

The religious community also dared President Arroyo if it is within her constitutional emergency powers in Maguindanao not to wait for any enabling law but to dismantle immediately all the political, military and economic powers of all family dynasties involved in this heinous crime in Maguindanao.

“On this season of advent, we wait, not just for the birth of our savior. We are in active expectation of justice, peace and love, not just in Maguindanao, but also in the whole country and the whole world,” it added.

Peace advocate and Redemptorist Priest Fr. Amado Picardal also said that he is filled with revulsion and sadness following the Maguindanao carnage.

“This is once again a manifestation of the culture of death which permeates our political culture. The Ampatuans have lorded it over the province of Maguindanao for so many years. They usually ran unopposed during elections and have been accused of being responsible of the election anomalies that benefited President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, “he said.

Picardal is also hoping that justice may be served and those responsible for this mass murder be held accountable. (Mark S. Ventura)