AFP steps up security at Pemberton detention facility

MANILA, Philippines - The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has increased security around the US-controlled facility where Marine Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton is detained for the death of Filipino transgender Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude.

More Filipino soldiers are guarding the two gated entrances leading to the compound of the Joint United States Military Advisory Group (JUSMAG) at Camp Aguinaldo, where the refurbished 20-foot shipping container housing Pemberton is located.

Another team of soldiers, apparently acting as reserve security force, is also manning their post in a nearby shaded area in the facility.

Since Thursday night, there were monitored activities of Filipino and US military personnel inside and outside the JUSMAG facility.

This was after the Olongapo City Regional Trial Court issued a warrant of arrest for Permberton and ordered him arraigned the following day for the murder case filed against him by prosecutors in connection with the death of Laude.

The US government delivered the warrant of arrest to Pemberton and in compliance with the court’s directive, it brought the American suspect out of JUSMAG at 4:30 a.m. Friday for his arraignment in Olongapo.

No visit to Pemberton

US Ambassador Philip Golberg has not visited Pemberton.

“No. I have no reason to (visit Pemberton),” Goldberg said in response to a question on ANC television last Thursday.

Golberg explained that while the US did not waive its “formal legal custody” of Pemberton, the US is keeping custody because of its obligation to service members under the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). – With Pia Lee-Brago