Sen. Grace Poe (UNTV News)
MANILA, Philippines – Senator Grace Poe announced on Tuesday that the Senate joint committee report on the Mamasapano clash had seven findings.
First, it was clear that MILF, BIFF and other rebel groups involved in the killing of the 44 Special Action Force (SAF) commandos are guilty of murder, frustrated murder and robbery.
Second, suspended chief Director General Alan Purisima violated Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code or usurpation of authority or official functions.
If General Purisima was not part of this situation, the doubt in the motive of the leaders will not be this much.
Third, former SAF Director Getulio Napeñas is guilty of grave misconduct.
Fourth, President Benigno Aquino III is responsible for “Oplan Exodus” because he gave the order to General Purisima despite the latter’s suspension.
“It’s strong enough that the committee has already found that President assented to the participation of a suspended officer who is suspended for what reason? Corruption,” the Senator said.
Fifth, the President should manifest unquestionable leadership, be forthright, candid and accept responsibility in all his decisions.
Sixth, there is indication that the planning of Oplan Exodus was not 100% Filipino planned and implemented.
This is because General Napeñas admitted that the U.S. counterpart helped in the intelligence gathering.
The committee did not find any violation on the part of the military.
Seventh, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process or OPAPP should pursue peace with justice.
According to Senator Poe, members of the Senate Committee on public Order and Dangerous Drugs, Peace Unification and Reconciliation and Finance will be signing the committee report.
Senator Chiz Escudero believes that the Senate committee report is more complete than the BOI report.
“It is more complete in the sense that General Purisima, the MILF, the OPAPP and the AFP participated and gave their testimony and evidence. The BOI did not have the same opportunity in their investigation,” he said.
Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto added that Poe’s report is fair, perspective and judicious.
“My first impression is that it is fair, perceptive and judicious – FPJ,” Recto said in his statement.
“It will contribute so much in explaining the tragedy that was Mamasapano, in drawing lessons so it won’t happen again, assign culpabilities, and prescribe recommendations, which, if followed, will hasten the process of healing and the delivery of justice,” Recto added.
The Senate had conducted 5 public hearings that had 37 resource persons and five executive sessions on the Mamasapano incident. (Nel Maribojoc / UNTV News)