High Court sets meet on Abu Sayyaf trial

Supreme Court justices are conferring on Monday with government, police and military officials and leaders of Cebu to discuss security implications of the transfer of the trial of Abu Sayyaf members, led by Hector Jan—alani, from Zamboanga City to Cebu City.

In a two-page resolution, the High Court invited Justice Secretary Hernando Perez, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jose Lina, Armed Forces chief Gen. Diomedio Villanueva, Philippine National Police chief Director General Leandro Men—doza, Sen. John Osmeña, Cebu Gov. Pablo Garcia and Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña to attend the meeting.

The tribunal acted on petitions by Cebuano leaders vehemently opposing its July 26 decision transferring the 11 criminal cases against the Abu Sayyaf members to Cebu City.

To be discussed in Monday’s meeting are the security of Cebu residents, the possible rescue by the Abu Sayyaf of their detained comrades and the possible transfer of the trial elsewhere.

The High Court ordered the transfer of the trial to Cebu City in response to a petition by Zamboanga City Mayor Maria Clara Lobregat who cited potential security risks to her constituents. — Delon Porcalla