Militant groups sued over SONA protest

MANILA, Philippines - Leaders of militant groups, including former party-list lawmakers, have been slapped with criminal charges over the violent protest during President Aquino’s State of the Nation Address last July 22.

The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) on Monday filed before the prosecutor’s office a supplemental complaint for violation of Batas Pambansa 880, direct assault, malicious mischief and physical injuries against 14 persons.

Charged were former party-list representatives Satur Ocampo of Bayan Muna, Liza Maza of Gabriela, Teddy Casiño of Bayan Muna, and Rafael Mariano of Anakpawis.

Also named respondents were Renato Reyes of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), George San Mateo of Piston, Ferdinand Gaite of Courage, Antonio Tinio of ACT, Jerome Adonis of Kilusang Mayo Uno, Carlito Badion of Kadamay, Deunida Regalario of Kadamay, Willy Marbella of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, lawyer Edre Olalia of the National Union of People’s Lawyers, and Rasti Dalizo of Sanlakas.

Meanwhile, a Quezon City court yesterday junked the complaint filed against Mayor Herbert Bautista, QCPD director Chief Superintendent Richard Albano and Department of Public Order and Safety chief Elmo San Diego for denying Bayan’s application for a permit to hold rally near Batasang Pambansa last month.  â€“Reinir Padua, Janvic Mateo