Pemberton's appearance, crucial litmus test - Gabriela

MANILA, Philippines - Women's rights group Gabriela on Tuesday challenged the US government to present US Marine Pfc. Joseph Scott Pemberton before the Olongapo City Regional Trial Court and face the murder charge filed against him in connection with the killing of Filipino transgender Jennifer Laude.

 

Gabriela secretary general Joms Salvador said the appearance of Pemberton will serve as a "crucial litmus test" whether the US government's pronouncement that it will cooperate with the investigation into the murder case or not. 

 

“The US wants us to believe that they will cooperate but their actions so far prove otherwise. First, the US embassy did not commit to produce Pemberton at the hearing, then they allowed the four US Marines who were witnesses in the murder case to leave the country. With the US’ deceptive moves, how are we even sure that Pemberton is still onboard the Peleliu?” Salvador said.

 

“We dare the US to show Pemberton to the Filipino people by bringing him to the hearing,” she added.

 

Salvador said that if the US government indeed wants to cooperate with Philippine authorities, it should have already turned over Pemberton to the local police for investigation even without the Department of Foreign Affair's request.

 

Members of the group will hold a protest action this afternoon in front of the Olongapo City Regional Trial Court where the preliminary investigation on the murder case will be conducted.

 

Pemberton is the principal suspect in the killing of Laude inside a motel in Subic, Zambales.