Maryknoll Fathers & Brothers
You must have heard or read in the newspapers that the DOJ has ordered the filing of rape charge against Fr. Shay Cullen of the PREDA Foundation. This pertains to the same charge of rape of a seven-year old girl already dismissed by the lower court. This old case is being brought up as harassment to obstruct the work of PREDA seeking justice for abused children by pedophile suspects.
At the very outset, the girl consistently pointed to the 12-year old son of their housekeeper and her half-brother who abused her at least ten times. She cited this to her teachers, DSWD social workers, the police in San Antonio and the NBI agents at all times before any allegation was made against Fr. Shay.
In an elaborate attempt to frame-up Fr. Shay, the child was coerced to write an incriminating letter in the Baloy beach bar of Harry Joost - the most severe critic of Fr. Shay and PREDA. This location alone, where the letter was written, under very suspicious circumstances makes it very clear that this was an effort to manufacture evidence. The child's father - Alan Dale Edmonds who left her at the time she was writing her testimony was still allowed to sign as witness. This was documented by the Commission of Human Rights Region III, who didn't even bother to get the side of Fr. Shay and PREDA when they finally made their report.
Members of the pedophile support group have made 50 false charges against PREDA staff over the past two years, most have been dismissed as baseless and harassment. Edmonds made 30 of these false allegations.
To all of these, PREDA did not waver but stand firm in its commitment to the children. In the performance of their duties and responsibilities, they see to it, always, that their actions are tempered with justice and compassion. Thus, if despite all these efforts, they will still be accused of these unimaginable crimes, PREDA is ready to face them.
Therefore, we the undersigned, express our strongest solidarity for Fr. Shay and PREDA for their utmost dedication in the upliftment of victims of child abuse. Fr. Shay and PREDA's on-going campaign to end the abusive and illegal activities of pedophiles surely deserves the support of all Filipinos and people around the world who value and respect the rights of the children.
Statement: Having worked in the Philippines for some 16 years, I know first hand the work of PREDA, and the dedicated work of justice for the poor, especially abused children of the street, victims of drugs and sexual abuse undertaken by Father Shay Cullen and his staff. The threatened charges of rape against Father Shay are absolutely incredulous, and even ridiculous.
Father Shay is a personal friend of many years, in whom I hold in highest regard.
Rev. Thomas J. Marti, MM
Vocation Director
Maryknoll Fathers & Brothers
Maryknoll, New York 10545
via e-mail dated August 16, 2000
