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In memory of Mr. Wilhelm Geertman
By Sr. Celine Saplala, OSB, Social Action Coordinator,
Posted: Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Wilhelm with his staff & relief goods

We remember Mr. Wilhelmus Geertman coming to St. Scholastica's College last year. Together with his staff, they fetched the relief goods to be distributed to the victims of typhoons "PEDRING" and "QUIEL" in Central Luzon, particularly Pampanga and Bulacan. Thousands of farmers, residents and indigenous peoples, as well as hectares of rice fields and fishponds in Pampanga and Bulacan were badly affected. The Alay Bayan, Inc. staff led by Wilhelm, came to SSC and were warmly received by our students and the SAC staff.

SSC students send off Alay Bayan staff

Wilhelm Geertmann, 67 years old, a Dutch volunteer and the Executive Director of Alay Bayan, Inc. was a simple man and dedicated to the work of aiding the farmers and other marginalized sectors in Central Luzon. He devoted much of his life in Aurora province since 1979 when Bishop Julio Labayen asked him to serve the poor there. Like other missionaries whether religious or lay, Wilhelm's work had been empowering communities through years of raising awareness on their human dignity and rights. He was also known for his opposition to mining that affect many areas in Aurora province. Last July 3, 2012 he was gunned down in front of the office of Alay Bayan, Inc. in Angeles City.

We extend our condolences to Alay Bayan, Inc. staff and workers. While we are saddened by the senseless killing of one who served the poor, we in St. Scholastica's College join all peace loving Filipinos in praying and calling for justice for Wilhelm and other victims of human rights violations.