Malacañang defends record in solving unexplained killings

Manila, Philippines – Malacañang defended yesterday its record in solving unexplained killings and ensuring that the human rights in the country are safeguarded.

Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in an interview with radio dzRB that various steps had been taken to stop human rights violations and protect witnesses.

An Amnesty International report stated that human rights violations continue in the Philippines nearly a year after President Aquino assumed office.

If there are those that are bent on doing something criminal, there really would be things likes these. But it doesnt mean were not taking steps to decrease (rights violations) and prosecute those responsible for these crimes, Valte said. She said the Commission on Human Rights and the executive branch were working to have certainty of punishment for the perpetrators of crimes.
Valte said the Department of Justice that oversees the Witness Protection Program (WPP) had been assessing what could be done to make the WPP more effective.

She said its not fair to compare the current administration with the previous one because unexplained killings that occurred under the Aquino government have been resolved speedily.

Valte said of the six cases, the suspects in five of these had been arrested immediately after the crimes were committed.

And the cases are ongoing. This is an indication that there is progress in things that we want to pursue apprehension and prosecution, she said. –Aurea Calica (The Philippine Star)