Catholics in Manila's Diocese of Kalookan hold a Walk for Life in July 2017 to protest the spate of drug-related killings in the area. (Photo by Angie de Silva)
Catholic bishops in the Philippines will lead a march in Manila on Feb. 24 to protest the spate of drug-related killings in the country.
Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo said this year's Walk for Life will also carry other "anti-life issues" like the declaration of martial law in the southern part of the country.
The prelate, who heads the Episcopal Commission on the Laity, said a "culture of violence" exists because of the killings.
He said the pending proposal to reinstate capital punishment in the country contributes to continuing the threats of life.
"These life issues are still present that's why there should be a continuous effort to make our people more conscious and stand up for life," said Bishop Pabillo.
He said Catholics should always stand up for life.
Protest marches will be held simultaneously in other cities of the country. "This is an opportunity for us to show that we are standing up for life," said the prelate.
"This walk is for the life of every person who has been a victim of this culture of death," read a statement from the Council of the Laity of the Philippines.
The group said the event is "an act of solidarity ... as Christians stand together to care for our fellow human beings and to ensure that common good and justice must prevail."
"We walk to uphold truth and righteousness and to proclaim that upholding the primacy of human life is a choice we must all make," said the group.