Sagay massacre witness’ father, Negros Occidental cops face raps

MANILA, Philippines — Criminal charges have been filed against several policemen and the father of the 14-year-old witness in the killing of nine farmers in Sagay town in Negros Occidental.

The mother of the witness, who was represented by her counsel from the National Union of People’s Lawyers, filed a complaint before the Department of Justice yesterday against Vic Pedaso for violation of Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act.

Chief Inspector Robert Manqueto, Sagay police chief; Senior Police Officer 1 Julie Ann Diaz and PO1 Christine Magpusaw were charged with child abuse under RA 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.

“Complainant and her son have experienced threats from respondents, including the filing of trumped-up charges in Sagay against one of the complainant’s counsels... they sought refuge in Manila,” the complaint read.

Last month, Pedaso filed charges for kidnapping against the human rights group Karapatan.

The Philippine National Police supported the filing of charges against the militant group.

DOJ Secretary Menardo Guevarra had earlier directed the National Bureau of Investigation to conduct a parallel probe into the massacre.

The fatalities, including four women and two children, were resting when they were attacked by around 40 men on Oct. 20.