Malacañang stays hopeful that the elusive justice will finally come for the victims of the Maguindanao massacre as the worst election-related case of violence in the Philippines marked its 10th anniversary yesterday.
Communications Secretary Martin Andanar remembered and honored the victims of the Maguindanao massacre which took 58 innocent lives in the name of political control by the Ampatuan clan.
“We would like to continue to extend our sympathies to the families of the victims of this horrendous event. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they seek justice. Let us all work together to ensure that nothing as appalling and as unjust as this ever happens again,” he said.
Andanar had earlier expressed optimism that families of the victims of the deadly massacre will have a better Christmas this year as they look forward to a decision on the case before the year ends.
Andanar reiterated that 10 years is too long of a wait for the victims to get justice. “Ten years of delayed justice is intolerable and ignominious. We are hopeful that the law will prevail and the court will rule in favor of the victims’ families putting an end to the injustice they have had to endure for years, as the decision on the case will be out soon,” he said.
As the world awaits the resolution of the case, CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia has called for justice as the nation awaits the final verdict on Dec. 20.
“Sampung taon na ang nakalipas subalit wala pa ring kapanagutan ang pagkamatay ng 58 indibidwal, kabilang ang 32 mamamahayag, sa nangyaring Maguindanao massacre,’’ the CHR said.
The CHR urged that the country’s justice system be further strengthened and asked government authorities to enhance the protection mechanism for journalists. (Argyll Geducos and Chito Chavez)