Philippines slams UN envoy for reference after Khmer Rouge trials

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government expressed strong disapproval over the reference to the Philippines made by David Scheffer, United Nations Special Expert on UN Assistance to the Khmer Rouge Trials, following the verdict against two of the Cambodian communist group's senior surviving members.

Scheffer warned the Philippines, South Sudan, the Central African Republic, Syria and North Korea that leaders should "take note" of the ruling against Khieu Samphan, the 85-year-old Khmer Rouge head of state, and Nuon Chea, the 90-year-old right-hand man to the communist group's late leader Pol Pot.

The two senior members of the Khmer Rouge regime were sentenced to life imprisonment for crimes against humanity including extermination, enforced disappearances and political persecution.

About 1.7 million people are estimated to have died from starvation, disease and execution due to the extremist policies of the communist Khmer Rouge when they held power from 1975 to 1979.

"Holding senior leaders accountable for the perpetration of atrocity crimes under their leadership does happen, it does ultimately occur," Scheffer told reporters a few days ago.

Scheffer noted that international justice can ultimately prevail. The Philippines, however, said that Scheffer's remarks are unjustified and without basis.

"Mr. Scheffer’s remarks are irresponsible and alarming since these are directed at the leadership of a democratic country with a functioning criminal justice system fully committed to respect human rights," the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

The DFA stressed that the Filipino people continue to enjoy fundamental rights and freedoms.

"The government’s campaign against crime and corruption is being waged precisely for the protection of its people and the continued enjoyment of their right to peace, security and fundamental freedoms," the DFA said.

Scheffer made the statement following reports that about 1,941 drug suspects have been killed in legitimate police operations, according to data from the Philippine National Police. — with reports from Associated Press