Catbalogan offers ‘healing’ mass for victims of hostage drama

by Ninfa B Quirante

Catbalogan, Samar (September 1) — Catbalogan local government officials offered a ‘ healing mass’ at the San Bartolome Parish Church yesterday afternoon as their flag flies half-mast in reverence to those who perished during that fateful hostage drama crisis in Manila.

Fr. Pines Tabones who celebrated the mass sought the parishioners help in praying hard for the victims and their families.

He added that times are hard and we need extra efforts to pray so that people who have lost hope maybe inspired and not to resort to desperate actions.

Tabones also reminded the faithful to be “responsible for their actions”.

Madames Ybeth Velasco of the Mayor’s Office said she had goose bumps as she lighted her candle in memory of those who died in the hostage drama.

Ms Ruby Robosura of the Accounting Department of the LGU led a prayer for the faithful departed especially those who died as an aftermath of the hostage situations.

A special prayer was also offered for ‘healing’ the relationship of the two countries strained by the pains of the death of Hongkong nationals.

The hostage drama was about a sacked PNP member who wanted an audience with his officers to review his case but something went wrong somewhere that resulted to his death and also at least five Hongkong tourist nationals who were on board the ill fated bus.

The offered mass and special prayers were meant to unite with those in Manila who offered a prayer rally for the very same purpose according to Vice Mayor Art Gabon and Councilor Stephany Tan.

Those who attended the mass offered candles and silent prayers for the physical and emotional healing of those hurt deeply in the incident. (PIA-Samar)