De Lima replaces prosecutors in Ampatuan trial

MANILA, Philippines - Justice Secretary Leila de Lima has ordered the panel of prosecutors handling the Maguindanao massacre trial replaced following reports of a worsening rift between the panel and the private lawyers hired by the victims’ families.

In Department Order 172 dated March 9, De Lima replaced Assistant Chief State Prosecutor Anthony Fadullon with Assistant Regional State Prosecutor Peter Medalle, who comes from the Department of Justice (DOJ) Zamboanga City Office.

State Prosecutors Juan Navera, Irwin Maraya, Karla Cabel and Amanda Felipe were replaced by Assistant State Prosecutors Amor Robles, Romeo Martin Seranilla, and Grace Ruiz.

The new set of prosecutors will make their first appearance when the trial resumes next week.

De Lima said Justice Undersecretary Francisco Baraan III, who is overseeing the trial, reported the rift could no longer be resolved.

She said the complainants and their lawyers provided the prosecution witnesses. “I do not want to lose the confidence of the private complainants. Public officials have to make difficult choices. I think I made the right decision. I cannot wait for the trial to be adversely affected,” she said.

De Lima said the previous panel lacked zeal and did not get some of the things she wanted done.

“For example, only one, out of the more than 100 respondents, has been arraigned — (former Datu Unsay mayor) Andal Ampatuan Jr. When I first came to the DOJ, I noticed the rift but hoped it will be resolved. But it’s getting worse,” De Lima said.

She said “the world is watching. If we lose this case, officials here, starting with myself, should resign.”

De Lima said the new panel members were chosen in consultation with Private Prosecutor Nena Santos and Prosecutor-General Claro Arellano to ensure a smooth transition and a better working relationship throughout the trial.

The private prosecutors include Santos and Harry Roque, hired by relatives of the 57 persons, including 32 journalists and female members of the Mangudadatu political clan, killed on Nov. 23, 2009 by armed men allegedly led by Ampatuan Jr.

Fadullon said he accepts De Lima’s decision to order the revamp, but added that they handled the case with all the commitment and dedication they could give.