National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP)
Statement
November 8, 2011
The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) welcomes the decision of the Court of Appeals’ Special 11th Division junking the petition of Zaldy Ampatuan to be excluded as an accused in the November 23, 2009 Ampatuan massacre case.
The decision is a positive development in the case that has been marred with continued delays due to maneuverings of the Ampatuan camp and inherent weaknesses of the Philippine judicial system.
We hope that the Court of Appeals and other courts will similarly act against blatant attempts of the accused to escape from prosecution and gain temporary or permanent liberty.
There is no longer any reason to further delay the indictment of Zaldy Ampatuan and all other principal accused.
As we mark the second year of this gruesome crime, we call on the Filipino people to remain steadfast in seeking justice for all the victims and their families.
We invite all people who believe in justice and democracy to join the various activities commemorating the second anniversary of the massacre. As we march to Mendiola on November 23, let us call on the Aquino government to make good on its promise to bring perpetrators of the massacre and all extra-judicial killings to justice.
For reference:
Nestor P. Burgos Jr.
Chairman
09177256333
Rowena Paraan
Secretary General
09104950095
