PH marks Gomburza's 152nd martyrdom anniversary

A reenactment of the execution of the three Filipino Catholic priests Mariano Gomez, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora known as "Gomburza" was held at the Rizal Park on Saturday to commemorate the 152nd anniversary of their martyrdom.

Praying with their rosaries, a group headed by “Running Priest” Father Robert Reyes walked from the Manila Cathedral up to Rizal Park in commemoration of the event, according to a report by Vonne Aquino on Super Radyo DZBB.

Upon arrival at Rizal Park, members of the clergy themselves, namely Father Reyes, Father Manuel Serranilla, and Father Flavie Villanueva, played the role of "Gomburza" and reenacted the heroes’ execution and Francisco Zaltua through the garrote, or strangulation.

Father Reyes said the issues that existed during the time of Gomburza remain prevalent, particularly conquest with the use of violence.

He called on the Catholic Church to continue to proclaim the truth especially for those who cannot speak for themselves.

Father Serranilla said that Filipinos differ from other people who sold their own country due to corruption and selfishness.

Historian Xiao Chua said the heroism of the three priests remains relevant as long as the innocent are being imprisoned and people are oppressed unjustly. —Jamil Santos/ VAL, GMA Integrated News