Detained transport leader’s kin seek pope’s help

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Philippines – The family of detained Isabela transport leader Virgilio Corpuz is seeking Pope Francis’ help for his release.

Corpuz, 63, chief of the Cagayan Valley Pinagkaisang Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide, was indicted for the ambush-slay of 12 soldiers in Tinoc, Ifugao in 2012. He denied the charges.

Aside from him, charged was Reneboy Abiva, an employee of a local social welfare office.

Randy Felix Malayao, peace consultant of the National Democratic Front, said Corpuz’s family was among scores of relatives of political detainees seeking help from the pope, who will arrive in the country this week.

The pope is expected to receive the petitions of the Corpuzes and several other detainees during a meeting with human rights groups next week.