Andal Jr. a no-show at trial

MANILA, Philippines – Andal Ampatuan Jr., the prime suspect in the killing of 57 people in Maguindanao last year, was a no-show at his trial in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig yesterday. Jail nurse Philip Ray told the court that Ampatuan was feeling dizzy and was nursing a stomach ache.

Ampatuan’s blood pressure was at 120/90 and has been given paracetamol, he added.

However, Assistant Chief State Prosecutor Richard Fadullon refused to accept the findings and demanded a diagnosis from a doctor.

Jail warden Inspector Adelo Natividad said their doctor, Maj. Claro Mundin has already been informed and was on his way to court as of 7 a.m.

Five hours later, Mundin has yet to arrive in court.

Natividad told The STAR during lunch break Ampatuan, who “looked pale,” has been complaining of sickness for several days and defecated twice early yesterday.

“We only have few jail doctors and most of them are attending to those who are gravely ill,” he said.

Natividad said Ampatuan was already dressed and was prepared for the hearing had the judge asked them to bring him down.