A leader of the Association of Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines has told the Department of Justice that it must ensure the safety of witnesses who agree to give evidence at a Truth Commission election hearing. “It is the justice department’s job to protect the civilians who will reveal information on the … scandal,” said Benedictine Sister Mary John Mananzan, co-chairperson of the Association of Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines, which offers sanctuary to witnesses and whistleblowers, ucanews.com reports.
The witnesses, all Armed Services personnel, may be called upon to testify at the Truth Commission election inquiry into the “Hello Garci” election fraud case on the alleged rigging of the 2004 poll which resulted in Gloria Arroyo’s election for a second term as president.
Her victory was questioned after the release of recordings of a phone conversation she had with Virgilio ‘Garci’ Garcillano, the serving election commissioner, while the votes were still being tallied. She later apologized on national TV for her “lapse in judgment” in calling Garcillano.
Marine Colonel Ariel Querubin said on July 30 that he would appear before the Truth Commission if called. He added that he could convince others who have direct knowledge of the fraud to appear alongside him.
Marine Commandant Major General Juancho Sabban also said his men are ready to “tell the truth” on what they know about the poll.
The “Hello Garci” inquiry will be one of the first undertaken by President Benigno Aquino III’s newly formed Truth Commission.
Eduardo Batac, defense department spokesman, responded to Sister Mary John’s appeal with a promise that the Department of National Defense would protect the military officials who come forward.
SIC: CTHAS