SW News: A group of Catholic nuns in the Philippines who have been charged with financing anti-national elements, defended their ministry and denied all charges. Five members of the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines issued a statement denying the charge against them, adding that their presence was to aid the underprivileged and foster peace between armed groups and the government.

In the statement, they refuted the claims of the government that they supported the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People’s Army, which has been classified as a terrorist outfit. In their August 30 statement, the nuns said, "As missionaries, we are unapologetic and unwavering in our commitment to work in poor areas, even when these areas are visited by militarization and armed conflict."

They mentioned in the statement that "Bringing services and accompanying grassroots leaders are effective methods for resolving community issues and sparking change and development that benefit the communities where we serve. We will not cower, even as we are afraid. God gives us strength and wisdom, quickening our steps and assuring our safety.”

The government has accused Catholic nuns of supporting terrorism, but they have maintained that they are peacemakers attempting to address the underlying causes of military conflict and social instability in the Philippines.

The nuns were among 16 people accused of sending money to the New People's Army. The charges were filed in Iligan City Regional Court by Department of Justice Attorney Mico Clavano following a probe by the Anti-Money Laundering Council. They have been charged under the non-bailable Terrorism Financing Act. In 2019, their bank accounts were frozen by the Anti-Money Laundering Council for allegedly supporting the communist uprising. In June this year, the website of the missionaries was shut down.

The missionaries comprise lay people and religious who work in Mindanao to protect the environment and indigenous peoples.