The Philippine government is prolonging Marcos victims’ agony for justice and indemnification

Press Release
By SELDA
November 12, 2006

MANILA, Philippines  –  “We, the victims of Martial Law welcome the decision of the US Circuit Court of Appeals.” Marie Hilao-Enriquez, secretary general of Samahan ng mga Ex-Detainees Laban sa Detensyon at para sa Amnestiya (SELDA), said on the US Court decision last week that the $35 million worth of Marcos’ remaining ill gotten wealth should be awarded directly to the victims.

This has been the second motion of the Philippine government to re-hear the case that awarded the $35 million to the victims. The US court has both denied these motions. Enriquez however decries that the Philippine government through the Presidential Commission on Good Governance (PCGG) will still take the case to the US higher court. “This would mean that the victims will wait even longer for compensation,” Enriquez says.

Enriquez adds that while they are pleased that the US court system recognizes the much deserved compensation for the victim, “it is the Philippine government that prolongs our agony for justice and indemnification.”

“There is still another battle to be fought – the justice and compensation bill being finalized in both houses of congress.” Enriquez explains that another Marcos account this time – the remains of the recovered P35 billion allotted to the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program, P11.5B of which is now being legislated by the Philippine government to be given to the victims. It is has now been passed in both houses, in the senate and the congress. “Both bills are flawed,” Enriquez states.

She explains that both versions of the bill has to be amended to serve the interest of the victims. Enriquez warns that if these bill passed the bicameral committee without amendments, not all victims might be compensated.