Phl urged to improve handling, prosecuting human rights cases

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - The Philippines should  improve its capability to investigate and prosecute cases of extra-judicial killing, US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. said.

In a statement Friday, Thomas expressed his government's sympathy to the families of the 58 victims on the thurd anniversary of the Philippines' worst election-related violence, according to Tina Malone, US Embassy public affairs officer.

The victims, including the wife of now Maguindanao province Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu,  his two sisters, supporters, and at least 34 journalists,  who were supposed to cover the filing of certificate of candidacy, were flagged down in Ampatuan town and murdered on Nov. 23, 2009.

Thomas said the call for the Philippines to improve its efforts in resolving cases of extra judicial killing was also echoed by several nations during the UN Human Rights Commission’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the Philippines.

Thomas also welcomed President Benigno Aquino III's pledge to bring those responsible for the crime to justice, end impunity and  show the  that the Philippines is committed in upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights.

“We appreciate the efforts of the officials from the Philippine National Police, Department of Justice, and courts working to bring closure to this case.  We shall never forget the victims of that merciless act committed in Maguindanao on November 23, 2009,” Thomas said.

Meanwhile, journalists here and members of the Zamboanga Press Club joined the different media organization in commemorating the  Ampatuan massacre.

At least 58 sky lanterns will be released after a brief prayer rally at the Paseo del Mar to symbolize the call for justice for the massacre victims and other victims of human rights.