PAHRA condemns the continuing actions of the accused Ampatuans and the insensitive collaboration of government security officials to perpetuate the impunity committed in the heinous massacre of 57 people in Ampatuan, Maguindanao last November 23, 2009.

Conducting a press conference in the detention facility, riding in a private vehicle for a check-up, having a party while in detention, attempting to bribe and harassing witnesses – all are incremental acts with the same objective of perpetuating impunity. Even earlier, the then OIC Secretary of Justice Agra attempted to delist on the flimsy grounds two Ampatuans from those who were charged in relation to the massacre.

Furthermore, the accused Ampatuans are invoking their rights and the technicalities of the law, such as the exclusion of Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes from hearing their case, so as to delay and bid more time for witnesses to be silenced if not eliminated.

PAHRA supports all moves of the Secretary of the Department of Justice, Leila de Lima to impose appropriate discipline and/or charges against government security personnel who become accessories to impunity as well as to strengthen its witness protection program.

PAHRA commends all those, especially the media community, who so far are contribuing steadfastly to obtaining justice for the victims and families of the Ampatuan Massacre. Every person of goodwill should do no less.