November 16, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Reference:
Sarah Katrina Maramag
Vice-chairperson/Media Officer, 09193486790

Eleanor de Guzman
Chairperson, 09282555423

Youth group finds PNP's quick conclusions 'dubious'
Joins calls for independent probe on Batasan bombing

"Quick yet dubious."

This was youth group Anakbayan's statement following the Philippine National Police's statements that the Batasan bombing has been 'solved' following a raid killing three alleged Abu Sayyaf suspects in Payatas, Quezon City yesterday.

Anakbayan cited three reasons: the PNP's conflicting findings, the overwhelming presence of a bulk of evidence in the alleged safe house, and the possible white-wash intended to veer away the motive for Batasan bombing from other political angles.

"As with the Glorietta explosion, the police should refrain from releasing conflicting statements that may cause more confusion to the public. As of yesterday, they said that they still have no lead and are open to all angles. Then comes this fait accompli conclusion that virtually points all fingers to three alleged rogue elements of the Abu Sayaff. (This is) An incredible development," said Eleanor de Guzman.

De Guzman added that the PNP seemed to have collected all possible damning evidence in one place at one given time. "Plus, the alleged suspects are all dead without benefit of any interrogation. How convenient is this?"

"The 'personal motive' angle, as with the 'accident angle' in the Glorietta tragedy, only serves to un-taint the Batasan bombing from any tinge of politics involving the administration. It veers away attention from present scams and scandals involving Malacanang as possible motives for the bombing," said de Guzman.

Anakbayan joined calls from various groups for an independent investigation on the Batasan bombing.

"This administration has long ceased to enjoy the public's trust. We cannot be blamed for doubting the police's findings. Only an independent probe we can trust. Justice should be served for the victims and we somehow have a sour taste in our mouths with the kind of 'justice' the government has meted out so far," de Guzman said. ###