By Media Mindanao News Service
(August 15, 1987 News Digest Volume 1, August 1987-July 1988)
ZAMBOANGA CITY (MMNS) – A Zamboanga del sur bishop had denounced the military for organizing civilians into anti-communist vigilantes.
A report received by the regional constabulary command disclosed that Bishop Antonio Tobias of Pagadian City diocese has been attacking the military in the province for exploiting the civilians in the fight against communities.
The report said the military was accused of forcing civilians in all barangays to organize vigilante groups. Those who refuse to join were accused of being subversives and were allegedly threatened with death.
Several vigilante groups like the Tadtad, Masa Alsada and Corazon Sagrado de Jesus have been formed in the Zamboanga del Sur to fight the communists.
The report further said Tobias has threatened to stage a series of rallies and demonstrations if the military would continue to organize and support vigilante groups.
The regional constabulary command declined to comment on Tobias’ accusations. (Media Mindanao News Service News Digest Volume 1, August 1987-July 1988)
