Prominent human rights defender Bishop Alberto Ramento of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI), or Philippine Independent Church was killed by unidentified men at his convent in Tarlac City, 105 kilometres north of Manila, on 3 October 2006. The true circumstances are still unknown, however prior to his death Bishop Ramento reportedly complained that he had been receiving death threats because of his active advocacy activities for human rights.

According to the information we have received, Bishop Ramento (69) was found dead in his room in 2nd floor of the parish of San Sebastian, Espinoza Street, Tarlac City at around 4:00am on 3 October 2006. He had been fatally stabbed seven times. Initial police investigation reports point to the incident as a mere case of robbery with homicide.

However, Bishop’s family and his fellow clergy believe that his murder was methodically planned and politically motivated. Bishop Ramento had reportedly received several death threats before his killing and told his family, “I know they are going to kill me next. But never will I abandon my duty to god and my ministry to the people.”