EDITORIAL - Now for the next step

Administrative proceedings have been initiated against several public officials in connection with the Aug. 23 hostage crisis that led to the deaths of eight tourists from Hong Kong. On orders of President Aquino, the incident investigation and review committee completed marathon hearings in a little over three weeks, coming up with a report more than 80 pages long. The committee identified “eight critical points” that contributed to the tragedy, and provided a detailed account of why 13 individuals should be held accountable for the fiasco.

The speed of the probe was unprecedented. What follows next should be an equally speedy and credible determination of culpability, so that corresponding penalties can be imposed. Most of the public officials deemed liable by the probe committee are being faulted for making the wrong judgment calls, inefficiency and other lapses in crisis management. There are appropriate penalties for such offenses. President Aquino, busy preparing for his visit to the United States, said his legal team is studying the actions that he must take, based on the recommendations of the committee. The actions will be known upon his return to Manila.

Justice is received by victims when appropriate punishment has been imposed on the guilty. Survivors and relatives of the fatalities in the hostage crisis clearly do not believe justice has been fully meted out with the killing of hostage taker Rolando Mendoza. Hong Kong residents and officials have openly faulted Philippine authorities for bungling the response to the hostage situation.

Critics say the Aquino administration is going overboard in trying to placate Hong Kong and Beijing. But Filipinos and the rest of the world are also in general agreement that the hostage crisis was mismanaged. Filipinos also want this low point in the nation’s life to lead to changes that will prevent its recurrence and make everyone, Filipinos and foreigners alike, safer in this country. This starts with a credible investigation, followed by the identification of those who can be held liable for lapses, and then the imposition of appropriate sanctions.