PHM-Exch> (Philippines) Morong 43 file formal charges against gov and military officials

[Claudio Schuftan]

From: CHD ManCom <chdmancom at gmail.com>



April 4, 2011



*Morong 43 file formal charges against GMA and military officials behind
their arrest*

* *

Quezon City, Philippines -- Taking their struggle to the next level, former
detainees and members of the so called Morong 43 trooped to the Quezon City
Hall of Justice today to formally file a civil case against top ranking
government and military officials believed to be behind the gross injustices
they were made to suffer in the 10 months that they were unlawfully
detained.



The plaintiffs are suing for damages totaling P15 million for physical and
psychological torture and other forms of indignities they suffered during
their illegal arrest and detention. Defendants named in the suit are former
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, former Defense Secretary Norberto
Gonzales, and current and former military officers.



With the filing of the suit, the health workers said that they are taking on
a new chapter in their quest for justice. “We want to send a strong message
that one cannot just get away with human rights violations".



As the new commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, the alliance challenged
the Aquino government to ensure that the military and police will fully
cooperate in the court hearings.  They also enjoined the public to keep
their vigilance to avoid any whitewash.##
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