No special privileges, no special treatment, and no kids gloves for those convicted in the Ampatuan Massacre.
This was the plea of House Minority Leader Benny Abante Jr. following the conviction of members of the Ampatuan clan and others found guilty of murdering 48 people—including family members of Maguindanao 2nd District Rep. Esmael “Toto” Gaguil Mangudadatu and members of the media—on November 23, 2009 in Ampatuan, Maguindanao.
“An important, essential component of justice is punishment.”
Abante urged officials of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Bureau of Corrections (BOC) to work together to “ensure that those convicted of this horrible crime are treated like the criminals they are.”
“The evidence has been weighed and our courts have spoken. These individuals have been found guilty as charged and they should be meted out the same kind of punishment given to those convicted of similar crimes,” said the lawmaker.
Brothers Zaldy and Andal “Unsay” Ampatuan Jr. were sentenced to reclusion perpetua or up to 40 years in prison without parole.
A total of 43 persons were convicted for what is considered the single deadliest attack on journalists in history.
According to Abante, “an important, essential component of justice is punishment.”
“We have seen instances in the past wherein prominent politicians and drug lords have used their influence and wealth to buy themselves special privileges. That should not be allowed here, or in any case,” said Abante.
The legislator lauded Quezon City Regional Trial Court Judge Jocelyn Solis Reyes, “for having the courage and conviction to uphold the law regardless of the alleged threats to her life.”
“Those now tasked with the incarceration of the Ampatuans should display the character exhibited by Judge Reyes. They should not allow themselves to be bribed or intimidated, and should instead properly perform their roles as instruments of justice.”