The head of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines is urging Filipinos to rise up amid the killings over the past weeks since President Rodrigo Duterte assumed office.

In his pastoral message Archbishop Socrates Villegas said the faithful must show their rejection over the killings against those allegedly involved in the illegal drugs trade.

“If you agree with us that killing suspected criminals is a crime and a sin itself, why do you just stay seated there in comfort keeping quiet? Whatever you do or not do for the least of your brethren, you do to Christ,” said Villegas.

“There is no peace for cowards. The next life to be snuffed could be yours. Wake up my people! Wake up!” added Villegas.

Senior Superintendent Dionardo Carlos, spokesman of the Philippine National Police, said close to 1,000 suspected drug pushers and users have been killed since July 1.

He said people must not accept to see anyone killed, whether they are suspected criminals or innocent persons.

Villegas said Filipinos must realize the problem can be solved in another way.

“We shall pray for those who have been killed. Innocent or guilty, they need our prayers. Whoever has no sin be the first to kill!” he said.

Villegas’ pastoral message will be read in all churches and chapels in the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan. DMS-Emmanuel Tupas