BISHOPS APPEAL AS PHILIPPINES EXPELLS CATHOLIC SISTER PATRICIA FOX

MANILA, Philippines – Catholic Bishops in Philippines have appealed to the government of the state to revoke the expulsion order issued on Sr Patricia Fox for alleged involvement in political activities. Sr Patricia Fox(71) who was worked for 27 years in Philippines was arrested for taking part in a human rights fact-finding mission in the south of Philippines, a country known for humanrights violation.

Her visa was revoked by the Bureau of Immigration, who described her as an “undesirable alien”. She has 30 days to leave or face deportation. According to the Bureau, Sr Fox has been involved in political activities, whereas her visa is strictly limited to missionary work.

On April 16, prior to the revocation order, the Bureau had detained Sr Patricia and released her after 22 hours due to the strong outcry. President of the Philippine’s Conference of Bishops, Bishop Romulo Valles made the appeal requesting government to revoke the expulsion order against Sr Patricia Fox.

“We sincerely make an appeal that the authorities may make a reconsideration of their order for Sr. Patricia Fox to leave the country,” Bishop Valles said. “We believe further that she is moved to serve our people by the love of Christ.”

Her lawyer, Jobert Pahilga has said issuance of visa is a privilege and not a right and has threatend to seek justice in court. “The issuance and grant of a visa is a privilege, not a right, hence a hearing is not necessary in visa forfeiture proceedings,” Mangrobang said in a text message. “The foreigner may file his or her motion for reconsideration.” He is prepared to take the case all the way to the Supreme Court if need be.

At 71, Australian-born Sr Fox has served in the Philippines for 27 years, “uplift the livelihood of farmers” and advocates with them for their rights to land, livelihood, peace, justice and security”. Others have characterized Sister as dedicated to the oppressed and marginalized.