By Dennis Carcamo (philstar.com)
MANILA, Philippines – A court in Rizal again deferred the arraignment of the so-called "Morong 43" and scheduled the court proceedings on a later date.
Judge Gina Cenat Escoto of Morong Regional Trial Court Branch 78 has reset the arraignment on Nov. 8 pending the resolution of the case filed before the Supreme Court questioning the legality of the arrest and continued detention of the 43 health workers.
The health workers were nabbed by military and police during a raid at a house in Morong, Rizal last Feb. 6. During the raid, authorities reportedly confiscated from the group bomb-making chemicals and several firearms.
This morning, the health workers were supposed to enter a plea before the court regarding the illegal possession of explosives and firearms charges lodged against them by government prosecutors.
The is the second time the arraignment was postponed. The first was last March 5 and was deferred by the Morong RTC, then under Judge Amorfina Cerrado Ceazar, on the argument of the defense counsels that there is still a pending question raised in the High Court.
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To the families of the 43 detained health workers: A statement of Solidarity
ReplyDeleteDear family members,
We are members and allies of ASDIC, Anti-Racism Study Dialogue Circle. We are a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, interfaith group based in the state of Minnesota, USA. We are committed to the work of undoin racism, white privilege and the legacy of colonialism.
We have become aware of the unjust arrest and detention of your loved ones. We want you to know that we stand in solidarity with you. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this time of anguish and crisis.
Our government officials will be receiving letters urging them to communicate with your Preseident and other appropriate government officials. We urge them to take immediate action on behalf of your loved ones.
In justice, solidarity and peace,
Members and allies of ASDIC
(Signatures)