Cardinal David: A Beacon of Courage Amidst Duterte’s Drug War
Cardinal Pablo Virgilio “Ambo” David, a staunch critic of Duterte’s anti-drug war, has emerged as a prominent figure advocating for justice and compassion. After witnessing atrocities in his diocese, he documented the violence while sheltering affected families. His elevation to cardinal in 2024 acknowledges his resilience and the Church’s critical role during Duterte’s era. David remains committed to providing hope amidst lingering threats and social upheaval.
In the shadow of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s brutal anti-drug campaign, Cardinal Pablo Virgilio “Ambo” David emerged as a resolute voice for justice, challenging a policy that led to widespread extrajudicial killings. One of the 133 cardinal-electors currently in the Sistine Chapel, David has been a prominent figure not just within the Church but also on the social justice front in the Philippines, especially during the harrowing years of Duterte’s rule.
Ordained as a priest in 1983, David actively opposed the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and later took on leadership roles within the Church. His academic journey took him to Louvain University in Belgium for his doctorate and even to Jerusalem to learn Aramaic. As a bishop, he boldly confronted Duterte’s violent drug war, which has triggered international outcry as thousands of lives were lost, many viewed as marginalized victims.
The tragic death of Kian Loyd delos Santos—as one of David’s parishioners—was especially emblematic of the violent reality under Duterte’s regime. Kian was shot dead by police during a drug operation, leaving his family devastated and ostracized. Their struggles reflect a broader narrative of families branded as criminals by authorities, as seen in the community around them. Witness reports conflicted starkly with police claims, sparking controversy around the tactics of the Duterte administration’s drug enforcement.
David’s diocese, encompassing impoverished areas in Metro Manila, saw countless bodies of violence-fallen youth appear in alleyways, forcing him to document these atrocities while providing refuge to grieving families. His sermons emphasized social justice and human dignity, but they inevitably drew the wrath of Duterte, who accused the Church of hypocrisy. In light of these criticisms, it is reported that David was marked for death.
Despite the threats to his safety, David did not back down. He publicly addressed Duterte’s incendiary remarks about bishops involved in drugs, speaking with dignity even in the face of danger. David’s courage incited a shift among other religious leaders and increased civil society activism against the government’s abuses.
Unbeknownst to David, Pope Francis was monitoring his plight and efforts. During a visit to the Vatican, the Pope expressed his recognition, telling David, “I have heard so much about what’s happening in your diocese.” The warmth and blessing the Pope extended to David were unforgettable moments that further solidified his commitment to justice amidst peril.
In 2022, David’s leadership role expanded as he was elected to the presidency of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, which elevated his voice on both spiritual and national issues. His appointment as a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2024 symbolizes not only his courage but also the Vatican’s acknowledgment of the Church’s essential role in advocating for justice.
Today, Cardinal David epitomizes the blend of peril and powerful love in his mission. As the nation grapples with the consequences of Duterte’s drug war and faces scrutiny from the International Criminal Court, he remains steadfast, challenging injustice and uplifting the voiceless. Cardinal David reminds both his congregation and the wider public that the Church is a refuge during times of tyranny. He asserted, “We are shepherds, we are not supposed to run away when the wolves come,” a profound commitment to the ethos of service and compassion.
In the realm of societal change, he remarked on the subject of controversial political figures in America, adding, “With all due respect, it’s not funny.” His words embody both the spirit of resilience and a clarion call for accountability that transcends borders and affiliations.
Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David’s journey from a vocal critic of Duterte’s drug war to his elevation as cardinal is a testament to resilience and compassion. Despite facing threats on his life and public vilification, he became a symbol of hope and justice in the Philippines. David’s unwavering commitment to the marginalized, coupled with a growing international recognition, underscores the significant role of the Church in combating tyranny. As the nation continues to deal with the ramifications of Duterte’s policies, Cardinal David’s legacy will inspire generations to stand for righteousness and speak truth to power.
Original Source: gulfnews.com
