Foreign gov’ts call for swift, just closure of massacre case By Michaela P. del Callar and Aytch S. de la Cruz 11/24/2010

Foreign gov’ts call for swift, just closure of massacre case

By Michaela P. del Callar and Aytch S. de la Cruz 11/24/2010

The governments of Australia and Canada yesterday joined the United Kingdom in urging President Aquino to ensure a just and swift conclusion to the Maguindanao massacre case wherein 57 persons, mostly women and journalists, were brutally slain on Nov. 23 last year.

Australian Ambassador Rod Smith said he welcomes the efforts of the Aquino administration to bring the perpetrators to justice, but stressed that a “credible and expeditious” conduct of the trial will be critical in demonstrating the Philippines’ commitment to protecting human rights and upholding the rule of law.

“Australians join with our Filipino friends in recalling with horror the brutal murder of innocent civilians and journalists in the Maguindanao massacre. We again extend our sympathies to the victims’ families as they mourn their loss and seek justice,” Smith said.

Canadian Ambassador Christopher Thornley called for the rule of law to prevail and for those responsible to be brought to justice.... MORE

Source:  The Daily Tribune

URL: http://www.tribuneonline.org/headlines/20101124hed2.html