MANILA, Philippines — The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines and Free Legal Assistance Group on Saturday slammed the filing of sedition charges against opposition figures — which watchers have described as an attempt to stifle dissent under President Rodrigo Duterte. Police alleged Vice President Leni Robredo, Catholic Church leaders and opposition politicians plotted to destabilize the Duterte government by implicating him in the narcotics trade. I know these bishops quiet well,” said CBCP President Archbishop Romulo Valles. Four bishops and three priests were among those accused of cyber libel and sedition. “I cannot bring myself to believe that these bishops were involved in seditious activities,” Valles added.

Source: Philippine Star July 20, 2019 07:52 UTC