Fiscals oppose Dureza as witness in massacre trial

MANILA, Philippines - The prosecution panel in the Maguindanao massacre has asked the Quezon City court handling the multiple murder case not to allow the presentation of former press secretary Jesus Dureza as a witness for the defense.

In a five-page motion, the panel said defense lawyer Salvador Panel, who represents suspect Andal Ampatuan Jr., intends to present Dureza in his capacity as a former government official.

Dureza, the presidential adviser on the peace process in Mindanao at the time of the massacre on Nov. 23, 2009, was appointed by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as the crisis manager following the incident.

The prosecutors said any communication or information that he has acquired through his official function is considered privileged communication and would disqualify him from testifying.