THE GUILTY verdict in the Ampatuan Massacre is proof that no matter how slow the wheels of justice turn in our country’s imperfect legal system, justice can be meted. Those convicted are expected to appeal, so final judgment can be still years away, but hopefully much sooner than another 10 years. In the meantime, the convicted accused should still be detained pending final resolution of the case, with all the enforcement measures for convicts.
For the larger picture, the Maguindanao Massacre is a result of political warlordism which is true not only in Maguindanao but in other parts of the country and perpetrated by political dynasties. This is a clear message to all voters to never again elect warlords to powerful positions in government from the barangay level up to all national posts.
This is also clarion call for Congress to already consider passing the anti-political dynasty measure. Succession management in Philippine politics must not be based on powerful family ties and affiliations, but on principles of good governance, effective public service, and integrity.
But yesterday’s judgment was just the first in the long and excruciating quest for justice for the 58 Ampatuan Massacre victims. There are still 80 suspects, including key members of the Ampatuan clan and their armed retainers, who remain at large. And there are also those who sought to cover up this most grievous of crimes. All of them must be held to account.
And there remains the culture of impunity nurtured by government apathy that continues to embolden those – including officers and agents of the state – who wield violence to achieve their ends.
This case should serve as a challenge to all branches of government to wipe out all private armies, seize and destroy all illegal firearms, and prosecute all lawless elements wherever they may be.
