I just discovered Witness.org. It's an organizations that many celebrities in the US support, which is how I stumbled upon it. Witness is an organization that fight for human rights through videos. I think the videos taken by UNTV apply for this case.
I posted a comment a comment in their forum to let their members know about what's happening in our country. (Click here to see the post.)
Check out their site at http://Witness.org and see for yourself the type of work they do against human rights violations. I hope Filipinos can do the same and have the courage to film for justice -- just like UNTV.
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Sunday, December 11, 2005
PRESS STATEMENT of the Family of the late FRANCIS XAVIER V. MANZANO
Thanks to the media person who sent me this statement to share with all of us. If you wish to share this with your family and friends, tell them to go to http://clearfx.blogspot.com/2005/12/press-statement-of-family-of-late.html
PRESS STATEMENT of the Family of the late FRANCIS XAVIER V. MANZANO
December 9, 2005
We are deeply pained and traumatized by the passing of our beloved youngest brother, Francis Xavier V. Manzano, under the most heinous of circumstances. Any death in a family is a cause for mourning; we, however, have greater reasons to mourn and grieve for Francis for the brutality that marked his death.
Our family is law-abiding and God-fearing; we were raised well by our parents and family members who inculcated in us high moral standards and values. We are also a very private family, with no desire to engage in public mudslinging with anyone. However, we believe that we owe it to our brother as well as to our late parents to not allow our name to be trampled upon and vilified without cause and without justification.
Francis has been described as a criminal and a carjacker by those who took his life. Francis, FX to us, was many things, but he was not a criminal, he was not a carjacker.
To his many friends, he was a kind-hearted and peace-loving person; to us, his family, he was a loving brother. We, who have known and taken care of him all his life, know him to be a person who abhorred violence and who was incapable of the acts he is now, in death, accused of having done.
This is why we have now come forward to break our peace.
We wish to say that we do not condemn the Philippine National Police as an institution. We are well aware that there are many men and women in uniform who serve with honor. However, we cannot turn a blind eye to the video footage of the killings as well as the testimonies of eyewitnesses that show beyond any doubt that those who killed Francis Xavier Manzano disregarded the rules of engagement and violated his fundamental human rights.
We believe in the rule of law. Francis was not accorded the rule of law. He was not a criminal, yet he was treated like the worst kind of criminal. He was never charged, tried, convicted or sentenced, yet he has already been executed.
After much reflection and prayer, the family agreed to cooperate with the Commission on Human Rights in its investigation. We acceded to their request to have the remains of Francis exhumed and his body re-examined by Dr. Raquel Del Rosario-Fortun, who had been commissioned by the CHR for this purpose. This was done on November 26-27, 2005 in Baguio City. We await her official report and findings which we are confident will bring us closer to the truth.
We wish to thank family members and friends who have condoled with us and supported us during this time of bereavement.
We acknowledge with gratitude UNTV and other witnesses who have bravely come forward to help shed light on the true circumstances of our brother’s death.
We thank the responsible members of the print and broadcast media for their objective and fair reporting and for respecting our privacy during this time of grief and mourning.
We thank, especially, the Commission on Human Rights, through the Honorable Chairperson Purificacion Quisumbing, for spearheading the independent investigation of this incident. We pray that the investigation may bear fruit and that justice may be done so that Francis may be able to truly rest peacefully.
Thank you very much and good day to all.
PRESS STATEMENT of the Family of the late FRANCIS XAVIER V. MANZANO
December 9, 2005
We are deeply pained and traumatized by the passing of our beloved youngest brother, Francis Xavier V. Manzano, under the most heinous of circumstances. Any death in a family is a cause for mourning; we, however, have greater reasons to mourn and grieve for Francis for the brutality that marked his death.
Our family is law-abiding and God-fearing; we were raised well by our parents and family members who inculcated in us high moral standards and values. We are also a very private family, with no desire to engage in public mudslinging with anyone. However, we believe that we owe it to our brother as well as to our late parents to not allow our name to be trampled upon and vilified without cause and without justification.
Francis has been described as a criminal and a carjacker by those who took his life. Francis, FX to us, was many things, but he was not a criminal, he was not a carjacker.
To his many friends, he was a kind-hearted and peace-loving person; to us, his family, he was a loving brother. We, who have known and taken care of him all his life, know him to be a person who abhorred violence and who was incapable of the acts he is now, in death, accused of having done.
This is why we have now come forward to break our peace.
We wish to say that we do not condemn the Philippine National Police as an institution. We are well aware that there are many men and women in uniform who serve with honor. However, we cannot turn a blind eye to the video footage of the killings as well as the testimonies of eyewitnesses that show beyond any doubt that those who killed Francis Xavier Manzano disregarded the rules of engagement and violated his fundamental human rights.
We believe in the rule of law. Francis was not accorded the rule of law. He was not a criminal, yet he was treated like the worst kind of criminal. He was never charged, tried, convicted or sentenced, yet he has already been executed.
After much reflection and prayer, the family agreed to cooperate with the Commission on Human Rights in its investigation. We acceded to their request to have the remains of Francis exhumed and his body re-examined by Dr. Raquel Del Rosario-Fortun, who had been commissioned by the CHR for this purpose. This was done on November 26-27, 2005 in Baguio City. We await her official report and findings which we are confident will bring us closer to the truth.
We wish to thank family members and friends who have condoled with us and supported us during this time of bereavement.
We acknowledge with gratitude UNTV and other witnesses who have bravely come forward to help shed light on the true circumstances of our brother’s death.
We thank the responsible members of the print and broadcast media for their objective and fair reporting and for respecting our privacy during this time of grief and mourning.
We thank, especially, the Commission on Human Rights, through the Honorable Chairperson Purificacion Quisumbing, for spearheading the independent investigation of this incident. We pray that the investigation may bear fruit and that justice may be done so that Francis may be able to truly rest peacefully.
Thank you very much and good day to all.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Sister Courageously Defends Slain FX Manzano
Amen to Jennifer Manzano for her courage! She said she had to do this despite some opposition and threats as it is the RIGHT THING, a BASIC RESPONSIBILITY of a human being to speak the truth for another who cannot defend himself --- whose right to life has been grossly violated by TMG operatives who violated their DUTY TO GOD & COUNTRY.
Jennifer, thank you. I'm sure FX is thanking you from the heavens for doing this. You have always done your very best for him, and that's to courageously speak the truth about him to the media despite some opposition and threats. Our country needs more people like you.
[A VIDEO CLIP]
"My brother was not a carjacker"
By Sandy Araneta
The Philippine Star 12/10/2005
A sister of a business school student gunned down last month by Traffic Management Group (TMG) officers during an anti-carjacking operation said yesterday her brother was not a criminal, the first time the family has made a public statement about the incident.
In a press conference held at the Astoria Plaza in Pasig City, Jennifer Manzano, 37, read a statement in connection with the killing of her brother Francis Xavier, praying that the investigation being conducted by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) "may bear fruit and that justice may be done so that Francis may be able to truly rest peacefully."
Francis Xavier, 26, a second year college student at the Thames Business School, was shot dead by police anit-carjacking operatives at the Ortigas Center in Pasig City last Nov. 7.
Also killed were his companions Brian Anthony Dulay and Antonio Cu-Unjieng.
Francis was the youngest of five siblings.
"He has been described as a criminal and a carjacker by those who took his life. Francis Xavier, FX to us, was many things, but he was not a criminal, he was not a carjacker," said Jennifer, who was almost in tears as she read her family’s statement.
She told the media men that neither Francis nor any other member of the family ever owned a firearm.
Jennifer said they are deeply pained and traumatized by the passing of their youngest.
"We believe that we owe it to our brother as well as to our late parents not to allow our name to be trampled upon and vilified without cause and without justification," she said.
Jennifer said that while they do not wish to condemn the Philippine National Police (PNP) as an institution, they cannot turn a blind eye to the video footage of the "overkill" as well as the testimonies of eyewitnesses "that show beyond any doubt that those who killed Francis disregarded the rules of engagement and violated his fundamental human rights."
"We believe in the rule of law. Francis was not accorded the rule of law. He was not a criminal, yet he was treated like the worst kind of criminal. He was never charged, tried, convicted or sentenced, yet he was executed," Jennifer said.
She said the family agreed to cooperate with the CHR in its investigation, and acceded the request to have the remains of Francis exhumed and his body re-examined by a doctor who had been commissioned by the CHR.
This was done last Nov. 26 in Baguio City. They are now awaiting the official report and findings of the autopsy which they believe would bring them closer to the truth.
Jennifer, on behalf of the family, thanked several people including CHR chairwoman Purificacion Quisumbing, UNTV for the video taken by a news crew and other witnesses, for helping them in the search for the truth.
Lawyer Theodore Te, legal counsel of the Manzano family, said they are now closely coordinating with Dr. Raquel del Rosario-Fortun, who performed the autopsy.
He said the family is hoping the report would come out soon.
"We are hoping that it will bring us closer to the truth to finding out what truly happened on Nov. 7, 2005. The re-examination and the re-autopsy will unearth a lot of things that right now cannot be explained in relation to the death of Francis," Te said.
He said that even if the families of those killed do not file charges, then the Department of Justice has a duty to do so, if the CHR finds basis.
Te said there were a lot of people in the area during the alleged shootout. He hopes that those witnesses will come forward.
"Without witnesses or without enough witnesses, I don’t think they will have too much basis to proceed. We are also making this appeal to people who may have been there, may have information, to come forward and coordinate with the CHR. If they are willing to coordinate with us, then I will coordinate with the CHR on their behalf," the lawyer said.
He said the Manzano family is thankful that the CHR took the initiative and continues to follow up the investigation.
"Suspected carjacker’s kin disputes police charges "
By Dennis Carcamo
THE elder sister of one of the suspected carjackers who were killed in a shootout with the police in Ortigas Center yesterday broke her silence and denied that her brother was involved in carjacking.
Jennifer Manzano, 37, sister of Francis Xavier Manzano, 26, one of the three alleged car thieves gunned down by operatives of the Traffic Management Group, surfaced to belie police’s allegations against her brother.
“Francis has been described as a criminal and a carjacker by those who took his life. Francis, FX to us, was many things, but he was not a criminal, he was not a carjacker,” Jennifer, along with her lawyer Thedore Te, said in press conference at Astoria Plaza in Barangay San Antonio Pasig.
She said their family is still waiting for the results of the autopsy on Francis performed by Dr. Raquel del Rosario-Fortun last Nov. 26 and 27 in Baguio City.
“We await her official report and findings, which we are confident will bring us closer to the truth,” she said.
Aside from Manzano, Brian Anthony Dulay and Antonio Cu-Unjieng were also shot dead by pursuing traffic policemen during an operation in Ortigas Center last Nov. 7.
But Jennifer described her brother as “a kind-hearted and peace-loving person” and “a person who abhorred violence and who was incapable of the acts he is now, in death, accused of having done.”
Jennifer read a statement of the family and refused to entertain any questions from journalists.
“Our family is law-abiding and God-fearing. We were raised well by our parents and family members who inculcated in us high moral standards and values,” she added.
The Manzano family, she pointed out, “(does) not condemn the Philippine National Police as an institution. But, they cannot turn a blind eye to the video footages of the killings as well as the testimonies of eyewitnesses that show beyond any doubt that the incident (was) not a legitimate shootout.”
"Manzano’s kin seek justice"
Inquirer
Editor's Note: Published on page A19 of the December 10, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer
THE FAMILY of one of three suspected car thieves killed in a clash with police have agreed to have his remains exhumed and reexamined, ending weeks of silence and starting what they said was a quest for justice and a “search for the truth.”
The family of Francis Xavier Manzano, 26, who was killed in a gunfight with police last month with two other suspected car thieves, said Manzano was wrongly reported as a car thief.
“Francis was not accorded the rule of law,” said Jennifer, 37, Francis’ sister. “He was not a criminal, yet he was treated like the worst kind of criminal.”
Jennifer said the family was now ready to cooperate with the Commission on Human Rights, which is investigating allegations that Manzano, Anton Cu-Unjieng and Brian Anthony Dulay were murdered by police.
The three, accused of being car thieves, were killed Nov. 7 at the Ortigas Business Center by agents of the Traffic Management Group (TMG).
The TMG said the three were killed in a gunfight, but witnesses were quoted as saying the young men never fired at the policemen.
Footage taken by TV station UNTV showed the police used “excessive force” against the three, according to lawyer Theodore Te, counsel of the Manzano family.
“We cannot turn a blind eye to the video footage of the killings as well as the testimony of eyewitnesses that show beyond any doubt that those who killed (Manzano) disregarded the rules of engagement and violated his fundamental human rights,” Jennifer said.
She said Francis, the youngest of five siblings who was called in the family as FX, never owned a gun.
“We don’t have a gun in the family,” she said. “Francis has been described as a criminal and a carjacker by those who took his life... But he was not a criminal, he was not a carjacker.”
She said it took the family “much reflection and prayer” before deciding to have his body exhumed and reexamined.
The family also chose to keep quiet for a long time.
“We are also a very private family, with no desire to engage in public mudslinging with anyone,” Jennifer said.
“However, we believe that we owe it to our brother as well as to our late parents to not allow our name to be trampled upon and vilified,” she added.
The body was exhumed Nov. 26-27 in Baguio City. It is already being reexamined by forensic expert Raquel Fortun as part of an ongoing investigation.
Te said the family doesn’t know how long the examination would take or when its results would be known.
Jennifer, thank you. I'm sure FX is thanking you from the heavens for doing this. You have always done your very best for him, and that's to courageously speak the truth about him to the media despite some opposition and threats. Our country needs more people like you.
[A VIDEO CLIP]
"My brother was not a carjacker"
By Sandy Araneta
The Philippine Star 12/10/2005
A sister of a business school student gunned down last month by Traffic Management Group (TMG) officers during an anti-carjacking operation said yesterday her brother was not a criminal, the first time the family has made a public statement about the incident.
In a press conference held at the Astoria Plaza in Pasig City, Jennifer Manzano, 37, read a statement in connection with the killing of her brother Francis Xavier, praying that the investigation being conducted by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) "may bear fruit and that justice may be done so that Francis may be able to truly rest peacefully."
Francis Xavier, 26, a second year college student at the Thames Business School, was shot dead by police anit-carjacking operatives at the Ortigas Center in Pasig City last Nov. 7.
Also killed were his companions Brian Anthony Dulay and Antonio Cu-Unjieng.
Francis was the youngest of five siblings.
"He has been described as a criminal and a carjacker by those who took his life. Francis Xavier, FX to us, was many things, but he was not a criminal, he was not a carjacker," said Jennifer, who was almost in tears as she read her family’s statement.
She told the media men that neither Francis nor any other member of the family ever owned a firearm.
Jennifer said they are deeply pained and traumatized by the passing of their youngest.
"We believe that we owe it to our brother as well as to our late parents not to allow our name to be trampled upon and vilified without cause and without justification," she said.
Jennifer said that while they do not wish to condemn the Philippine National Police (PNP) as an institution, they cannot turn a blind eye to the video footage of the "overkill" as well as the testimonies of eyewitnesses "that show beyond any doubt that those who killed Francis disregarded the rules of engagement and violated his fundamental human rights."
"We believe in the rule of law. Francis was not accorded the rule of law. He was not a criminal, yet he was treated like the worst kind of criminal. He was never charged, tried, convicted or sentenced, yet he was executed," Jennifer said.
She said the family agreed to cooperate with the CHR in its investigation, and acceded the request to have the remains of Francis exhumed and his body re-examined by a doctor who had been commissioned by the CHR.
This was done last Nov. 26 in Baguio City. They are now awaiting the official report and findings of the autopsy which they believe would bring them closer to the truth.
Jennifer, on behalf of the family, thanked several people including CHR chairwoman Purificacion Quisumbing, UNTV for the video taken by a news crew and other witnesses, for helping them in the search for the truth.
Lawyer Theodore Te, legal counsel of the Manzano family, said they are now closely coordinating with Dr. Raquel del Rosario-Fortun, who performed the autopsy.
He said the family is hoping the report would come out soon.
"We are hoping that it will bring us closer to the truth to finding out what truly happened on Nov. 7, 2005. The re-examination and the re-autopsy will unearth a lot of things that right now cannot be explained in relation to the death of Francis," Te said.
He said that even if the families of those killed do not file charges, then the Department of Justice has a duty to do so, if the CHR finds basis.
Te said there were a lot of people in the area during the alleged shootout. He hopes that those witnesses will come forward.
"Without witnesses or without enough witnesses, I don’t think they will have too much basis to proceed. We are also making this appeal to people who may have been there, may have information, to come forward and coordinate with the CHR. If they are willing to coordinate with us, then I will coordinate with the CHR on their behalf," the lawyer said.
He said the Manzano family is thankful that the CHR took the initiative and continues to follow up the investigation.
"Suspected carjacker’s kin disputes police charges "
By Dennis Carcamo
THE elder sister of one of the suspected carjackers who were killed in a shootout with the police in Ortigas Center yesterday broke her silence and denied that her brother was involved in carjacking.
Jennifer Manzano, 37, sister of Francis Xavier Manzano, 26, one of the three alleged car thieves gunned down by operatives of the Traffic Management Group, surfaced to belie police’s allegations against her brother.
“Francis has been described as a criminal and a carjacker by those who took his life. Francis, FX to us, was many things, but he was not a criminal, he was not a carjacker,” Jennifer, along with her lawyer Thedore Te, said in press conference at Astoria Plaza in Barangay San Antonio Pasig.
She said their family is still waiting for the results of the autopsy on Francis performed by Dr. Raquel del Rosario-Fortun last Nov. 26 and 27 in Baguio City.
“We await her official report and findings, which we are confident will bring us closer to the truth,” she said.
Aside from Manzano, Brian Anthony Dulay and Antonio Cu-Unjieng were also shot dead by pursuing traffic policemen during an operation in Ortigas Center last Nov. 7.
But Jennifer described her brother as “a kind-hearted and peace-loving person” and “a person who abhorred violence and who was incapable of the acts he is now, in death, accused of having done.”
Jennifer read a statement of the family and refused to entertain any questions from journalists.
“Our family is law-abiding and God-fearing. We were raised well by our parents and family members who inculcated in us high moral standards and values,” she added.
The Manzano family, she pointed out, “(does) not condemn the Philippine National Police as an institution. But, they cannot turn a blind eye to the video footages of the killings as well as the testimonies of eyewitnesses that show beyond any doubt that the incident (was) not a legitimate shootout.”
"Manzano’s kin seek justice"
Inquirer
Editor's Note: Published on page A19 of the December 10, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer
THE FAMILY of one of three suspected car thieves killed in a clash with police have agreed to have his remains exhumed and reexamined, ending weeks of silence and starting what they said was a quest for justice and a “search for the truth.”
The family of Francis Xavier Manzano, 26, who was killed in a gunfight with police last month with two other suspected car thieves, said Manzano was wrongly reported as a car thief.
“Francis was not accorded the rule of law,” said Jennifer, 37, Francis’ sister. “He was not a criminal, yet he was treated like the worst kind of criminal.”
Jennifer said the family was now ready to cooperate with the Commission on Human Rights, which is investigating allegations that Manzano, Anton Cu-Unjieng and Brian Anthony Dulay were murdered by police.
The three, accused of being car thieves, were killed Nov. 7 at the Ortigas Business Center by agents of the Traffic Management Group (TMG).
The TMG said the three were killed in a gunfight, but witnesses were quoted as saying the young men never fired at the policemen.
Footage taken by TV station UNTV showed the police used “excessive force” against the three, according to lawyer Theodore Te, counsel of the Manzano family.
“We cannot turn a blind eye to the video footage of the killings as well as the testimony of eyewitnesses that show beyond any doubt that those who killed (Manzano) disregarded the rules of engagement and violated his fundamental human rights,” Jennifer said.
She said Francis, the youngest of five siblings who was called in the family as FX, never owned a gun.
“We don’t have a gun in the family,” she said. “Francis has been described as a criminal and a carjacker by those who took his life... But he was not a criminal, he was not a carjacker.”
She said it took the family “much reflection and prayer” before deciding to have his body exhumed and reexamined.
The family also chose to keep quiet for a long time.
“We are also a very private family, with no desire to engage in public mudslinging with anyone,” Jennifer said.
“However, we believe that we owe it to our brother as well as to our late parents to not allow our name to be trampled upon and vilified,” she added.
The body was exhumed Nov. 26-27 in Baguio City. It is already being reexamined by forensic expert Raquel Fortun as part of an ongoing investigation.
Te said the family doesn’t know how long the examination would take or when its results would be known.
Friday, December 09, 2005
Family of slain carjack suspect agrees to have body exhumed
Let's pray and support the family of Francis Manzano. The decision to exhume his body must have been a very difficult one to make, especially during such a painful time. Their belief in justice and solidarity as a family should be commended.
"Family of slain carjack suspect agrees to have body exhumed"
By Edson Castro Tandoc Jr.
Inquirer
THE FAMILY of Francis Manzano, one of three suspected carjackers killed in an alleged shootout last month with Traffic Management Group operatives, announced on Friday that they were willing to have his body exhumed and subjected to an autopsy.
Jennifer Manzano, sister of Francis, said that it took the family some time to agree to the exhumation because they were traumatized by the brutal killing.
The Commission on Human Rights is conducting an investigation into the Nov. 7 alleged shootout in Pasig City that resulted in the killing of Manzano, Anton Cu-Unjieng and Brian Anthony Dulay. The CHR wanted to have Manzano’s body autopsied anew.
The bodies of Cu-Unjieng and Dulay were cremated.
"Family of slain carjack suspect agrees to have body exhumed"
By Edson Castro Tandoc Jr.
Inquirer
THE FAMILY of Francis Manzano, one of three suspected carjackers killed in an alleged shootout last month with Traffic Management Group operatives, announced on Friday that they were willing to have his body exhumed and subjected to an autopsy.
Jennifer Manzano, sister of Francis, said that it took the family some time to agree to the exhumation because they were traumatized by the brutal killing.
The Commission on Human Rights is conducting an investigation into the Nov. 7 alleged shootout in Pasig City that resulted in the killing of Manzano, Anton Cu-Unjieng and Brian Anthony Dulay. The CHR wanted to have Manzano’s body autopsied anew.
The bodies of Cu-Unjieng and Dulay were cremated.
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
More on the life of Francis Xavier Manzano
I just received this comment on a blog I wrote, A Letter About FX. Thank you for sharing with us more about FX and letting the world know the true Francis Xavier Manzano.
I cried reading this blog. It reminded me of all the testimonies of people who spoke in FX's wake...especially his materially poor friends and classmates from the Mt Province to whom he gave ALL HIS THINGS when he graduated. I heard testimony from people from all walks of life. He touched many peoples' lives especially the poor and the needy in his quiet way. Most touching were the testimonies of his daughter and nieces and nephews who could not understand why "bad men had to kill Tito F" . Hindi siya "pasiklab" "mayabang". (He's not flashy or conceited.) He had more poor friends than rich ones. He has been a volunteer counselor for 3 years and we will never know what secret(s) involving TMG, PNP or the military were told to him - that's why he had to be rubbed out too. When something tragic like this happens, we think of "could haves" should haves" and one o fmy thoughts - if he was not too "mabait" (nice/kind-hearted) and too helpful with others' problems as a counselor- baka buhay pa siya ngayon (perhaps he may still be alive today)! Sayang to have his life taken and in such a brutal fashion. The cover-up is so sad but we should be used to it in the Philippines as we read about it everyday in the newspapers involving the highest levels of the government. Manhid na tayo!
I cried reading this blog. It reminded me of all the testimonies of people who spoke in FX's wake...especially his materially poor friends and classmates from the Mt Province to whom he gave ALL HIS THINGS when he graduated. I heard testimony from people from all walks of life. He touched many peoples' lives especially the poor and the needy in his quiet way. Most touching were the testimonies of his daughter and nieces and nephews who could not understand why "bad men had to kill Tito F" . Hindi siya "pasiklab" "mayabang". (He's not flashy or conceited.) He had more poor friends than rich ones. He has been a volunteer counselor for 3 years and we will never know what secret(s) involving TMG, PNP or the military were told to him - that's why he had to be rubbed out too. When something tragic like this happens, we think of "could haves" should haves" and one o fmy thoughts - if he was not too "mabait" (nice/kind-hearted) and too helpful with others' problems as a counselor- baka buhay pa siya ngayon (perhaps he may still be alive today)! Sayang to have his life taken and in such a brutal fashion. The cover-up is so sad but we should be used to it in the Philippines as we read about it everyday in the newspapers involving the highest levels of the government. Manhid na tayo!
Relationship between Philippine Police & Commission of Human Rights: A publicity stunt?!
The Philippine police are now desecrating the victims of the Human rights by "pretending" to uphold their rights after killing them. I wonder how fair this Commission of Human Rights (CHR) will be to Francis Xavier Manzano. I wonder how fair they will be to future victims. I question how fair CHR will be when they're so closely tied to the corrupt Philippine Military and Philippine Police.
I must commend the public relations adviser for the Philippine police for coming up with this strategy -- "Let's publicly befriend the CHR to gain the public's trust." Too bad for them that we're not foolish to their publicity stunts. Too bad for them that we realize the police effort in "partnering" with CHR is just their way of keeping "their enemies closer."
Let's continue to pray and hope for truth & justice in our country. I would like to ask fellow bloggers, readers, mailing lists, websites, e-mailers and others who wish to help us gain justice to please spread the link to this website or simply spread the word of our cry for justice. I pray that someone out there reading this can help gain justice for Francis Xavier Manzano.
EXCERPT:
"Police to join celebration of human rights week"
By Katherine Adraneda
The Philippine Star 12/05/2005
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Arturo Lumibao will join the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and human rights advocates in a ceremony that will recognize "CHR partners," including police and military officers, non-government organizations (NGOs), and civic and church-based groups.
"I hope the occasion will send a message of peace and harmony to every individual across the nation, that human rights knows no bounds," said
Commissioner-in-charge Wilhelm Soriano, of the CHR-National Capital Region.
Dubbed as "Karapatang Pantao: Igalang, Itaguyod, at Ipatupad," the event marks the convergence of police authorities, military officials, and other
"state actors," NGOs, urban poor, informal settlers, church groups, and those who firmly believe in the preservation of the dignity of every human
being.
"A celebration of human rights is a triumph of democracy," Soriano said.
Among those to be conferred plaques of appreciation for their contribution to human rights advocacy are Dagat-dagatan Council of Leaders led by Lilia Esparrago, Bantay Bata Foundation group, Human Rights Defense group, Superintendent Rolando Anonuevo of the PNP Intelligence Training Group, Dr. Liza Derillo of the Soroptomist International of the Philippines, Col. Winston Manay of the Philippine Air Force Officer School, Director Reynaldo Varilla of Human Resource Doctrine Development, General Renato Miranda of
the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Councilor Kevin Delgado of Muntinlupa City, and Councilor Corazon Braga of Antipolo City.
"Our theme concretizes the idea of bringing Filipinos together, regardless of their differences in ideologies and ideals, partisan politics notwithstanding...that they may see eye to eye in terms of defining human rights," Soriano said.
Human rights advocates and members of the police clashed months ago over the implementation of the administration’s calibrated preemptive response (CPR) and "no permit, no rally policy," which were deemed as curtailment to the people’s right to free expression.
The military, on the other hand, has been blamed for the series of human rights abuses, and killings against leaders and members of organizations in
the countryside, who were perceived as members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Meanwhile, human rights group KARAPATAN renews its call for the improvement of the human rights situation in the country.
In its 2005 Human Rights Report, the group said that the Arroyo administration has turned to wanton use of repression and "state terror" to cling to power. KARAPATAN has documented 874 cases of human rights violations, which affected 99,011 individuals; and 14,302 families in 288
communities from January to November this year.
Marie Hilao-Enriquez, leader of KARAPATAN, said that the report is a result of painstaking efforts of human rights workers and volunteers in the
Philippines.
"This makes 2005 possibly the worst year for human rights in the post-Marcos era," Enriquez said.
"The intensity of the political killings that occurred in 2005 and the broadness of its targets to include lawyers, human rights defenders, journalists, church leaders, local officials, community leaders and
organizers, ordinary peasants and workers and members of progressive parties and people’s organization surpasses that of any regime after Martial Law," she added.
According to KARAPATAN, 150 persons, including a two-year-old boy and two unborn children, were killed from January to November this year while the
number of political killings increased by more than 100 percent compared to 2004.
KARAPATAN said that of the 150 victims of political killings, 80 were activists who were critical of the Arroyo regime; the remaining 68 were not known to be affiliated with any political party or organization but were suspected by the military to be sympathizers, supporters, friends or relatives of communist or Muslim rebels.
"On the occasion of the 57th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we believe that possibilities for justice for the victims of
human rights violations and opportunities for the improvement of the human rights situation can only be opened up with the removal of Gloria Arroyo
from the presidency."
I must commend the public relations adviser for the Philippine police for coming up with this strategy -- "Let's publicly befriend the CHR to gain the public's trust." Too bad for them that we're not foolish to their publicity stunts. Too bad for them that we realize the police effort in "partnering" with CHR is just their way of keeping "their enemies closer."
Let's continue to pray and hope for truth & justice in our country. I would like to ask fellow bloggers, readers, mailing lists, websites, e-mailers and others who wish to help us gain justice to please spread the link to this website or simply spread the word of our cry for justice. I pray that someone out there reading this can help gain justice for Francis Xavier Manzano.
EXCERPT:
"Police to join celebration of human rights week"
By Katherine Adraneda
The Philippine Star 12/05/2005
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Arturo Lumibao will join the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and human rights advocates in a ceremony that will recognize "CHR partners," including police and military officers, non-government organizations (NGOs), and civic and church-based groups.
"I hope the occasion will send a message of peace and harmony to every individual across the nation, that human rights knows no bounds," said
Commissioner-in-charge Wilhelm Soriano, of the CHR-National Capital Region.
Dubbed as "Karapatang Pantao: Igalang, Itaguyod, at Ipatupad," the event marks the convergence of police authorities, military officials, and other
"state actors," NGOs, urban poor, informal settlers, church groups, and those who firmly believe in the preservation of the dignity of every human
being.
"A celebration of human rights is a triumph of democracy," Soriano said.
Among those to be conferred plaques of appreciation for their contribution to human rights advocacy are Dagat-dagatan Council of Leaders led by Lilia Esparrago, Bantay Bata Foundation group, Human Rights Defense group, Superintendent Rolando Anonuevo of the PNP Intelligence Training Group, Dr. Liza Derillo of the Soroptomist International of the Philippines, Col. Winston Manay of the Philippine Air Force Officer School, Director Reynaldo Varilla of Human Resource Doctrine Development, General Renato Miranda of
the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Councilor Kevin Delgado of Muntinlupa City, and Councilor Corazon Braga of Antipolo City.
"Our theme concretizes the idea of bringing Filipinos together, regardless of their differences in ideologies and ideals, partisan politics notwithstanding...that they may see eye to eye in terms of defining human rights," Soriano said.
Human rights advocates and members of the police clashed months ago over the implementation of the administration’s calibrated preemptive response (CPR) and "no permit, no rally policy," which were deemed as curtailment to the people’s right to free expression.
The military, on the other hand, has been blamed for the series of human rights abuses, and killings against leaders and members of organizations in
the countryside, who were perceived as members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Meanwhile, human rights group KARAPATAN renews its call for the improvement of the human rights situation in the country.
In its 2005 Human Rights Report, the group said that the Arroyo administration has turned to wanton use of repression and "state terror" to cling to power. KARAPATAN has documented 874 cases of human rights violations, which affected 99,011 individuals; and 14,302 families in 288
communities from January to November this year.
Marie Hilao-Enriquez, leader of KARAPATAN, said that the report is a result of painstaking efforts of human rights workers and volunteers in the
Philippines.
"This makes 2005 possibly the worst year for human rights in the post-Marcos era," Enriquez said.
"The intensity of the political killings that occurred in 2005 and the broadness of its targets to include lawyers, human rights defenders, journalists, church leaders, local officials, community leaders and
organizers, ordinary peasants and workers and members of progressive parties and people’s organization surpasses that of any regime after Martial Law," she added.
According to KARAPATAN, 150 persons, including a two-year-old boy and two unborn children, were killed from January to November this year while the
number of political killings increased by more than 100 percent compared to 2004.
KARAPATAN said that of the 150 victims of political killings, 80 were activists who were critical of the Arroyo regime; the remaining 68 were not known to be affiliated with any political party or organization but were suspected by the military to be sympathizers, supporters, friends or relatives of communist or Muslim rebels.
"On the occasion of the 57th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we believe that possibilities for justice for the victims of
human rights violations and opportunities for the improvement of the human rights situation can only be opened up with the removal of Gloria Arroyo
from the presidency."
Saturday, December 03, 2005
A Comment To Highlight
Received this comment on the blog and I just wanted to highlight it. (I'm not sure how easy it is to see the new comments that are posted on this blog. I receive many commments to various posts but it looks all spread out and not as easily seen, perhaps?)
To this anonymous person who wrote in: Thank you for writing.
--------
I was quite ashamed of myself thinking that it could have been true, but then I saw the video... just imagine how many people the police think they can fool! I'm one of them, but now, only now (how shameful) did I realize how wrong I was since I'm not much of a news watcher. We have seen the evidence, a true untainted one in fact. Not like the ones planted by the police just to make their story seemingly true.
So there is still hope. Just with this video we can convince the world that the Philippine Police is corrupted. I just hope that by doing so, the families of the victims and even the Filipino people can have their justice.
Anyway, how disgusting can it get? How low should the police stoop? Is killing three innocent and loved people not enough for them? I can't believe they are after the witnesses and the families!!! How crude and rude... disrespectful indeed. Tapping into the private conversations of the victim's families with their friends is an abuse. It's like denying them freedom. And God, how mean could they get into coercing the witnesses to change their stories.
I'm really sorry... and to the Police, how could you?! Just imagine those three victims as your own sons and think and feel the wrong you've done. Angelo Reyes, what a sick man you are!!! You see how things could turn in one instant, you may be resting in your comforts now, but tomorrow you'll see and you'd be in the victims places. Karma has a way of getting you! Be warned....
---------
To this anonymous person who wrote in: Thank you for writing.
--------
I was quite ashamed of myself thinking that it could have been true, but then I saw the video... just imagine how many people the police think they can fool! I'm one of them, but now, only now (how shameful) did I realize how wrong I was since I'm not much of a news watcher. We have seen the evidence, a true untainted one in fact. Not like the ones planted by the police just to make their story seemingly true.
So there is still hope. Just with this video we can convince the world that the Philippine Police is corrupted. I just hope that by doing so, the families of the victims and even the Filipino people can have their justice.
Anyway, how disgusting can it get? How low should the police stoop? Is killing three innocent and loved people not enough for them? I can't believe they are after the witnesses and the families!!! How crude and rude... disrespectful indeed. Tapping into the private conversations of the victim's families with their friends is an abuse. It's like denying them freedom. And God, how mean could they get into coercing the witnesses to change their stories.
I'm really sorry... and to the Police, how could you?! Just imagine those three victims as your own sons and think and feel the wrong you've done. Angelo Reyes, what a sick man you are!!! You see how things could turn in one instant, you may be resting in your comforts now, but tomorrow you'll see and you'd be in the victims places. Karma has a way of getting you! Be warned....
---------
Friday, December 02, 2005
Letting Oprah Fans Know
So I joined the Oprah Angel Network today and shared my story. Who knows if Oprah will read it. I doubt it. A new reader is enough accomplishment for me today - that they, too, will understand our cry for justice and our attempts to end corruption in our country.
Remember, green on the 7th! I'm going to pick up some green bands for my friends. Maybe, if maybe, the police have ended their threats and phone tapping to FX's family, I can share with them some of the green bands I get.
Anyone know someone from the media who can let our people know to wear green on the 7th?
Remember, green on the 7th! I'm going to pick up some green bands for my friends. Maybe, if maybe, the police have ended their threats and phone tapping to FX's family, I can share with them some of the green bands I get.
Anyone know someone from the media who can let our people know to wear green on the 7th?
Thursday, December 01, 2005
A Touching Blog By A Classmate
I ran into this blog by Pameelicious, who reflects on seeing FX the afternoon before he was shot. Thank you for your blog. I got teary eyed at the end of reading this, remembering FX and how well he's liked.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Dec 7 - Show Your Support For Justice & Peace
I had a conversation with a mutual friend of FX. We were talking about our frustrations about the lack of justice this case has fallen into. He asked, "What can we do if we can't even trust the cops, the government, or the investigators to show us the truth, protect us with our truthful words, or give justice to FX?"
I kept thinking about his question. Is what I'm doing, blogging for justice, helping us gain justice for FX? I hope so. It's at least reaching the awareness to people all over the world that we, Filipinos, seek justice for the corruption happening in our country. Ever since I started this blog, I have been swamped with emails from readers from all over the world who support my efforts. Some who do not understand Tagalog have reached out to their Filipino friends to translate what is happening. Others share the link to this blog through email, forums and word of mouth. Thank you.
I believe that part of fighting for the truth and justice is to NOT ALLOW this story to die. We need to let each other know, peacefully, that we are aware of what the police have done and we wish justice for Francis Xavier Manzano. I would like to encourage you to wear green on Dec 7 -- a month after the incident -- to show your support for peace and justice. Let's do this every month -- until justice has been served -- to show that we are continuously aware of the injustice that was done to Francis Xavier Manzano. Let's wear our greens to show that we will not tolerate the Philippine police and military's corruption and threats against Filipinos. Even if you're not in the Philipppines... even if you're not a Filipino... please make an effort to wear green in your silent support for peace and justice for Francis Xavier Manzano.
So you have a week to prepare and to pass the word around! Dec 7 is Wednesday of next week.
I kept thinking about his question. Is what I'm doing, blogging for justice, helping us gain justice for FX? I hope so. It's at least reaching the awareness to people all over the world that we, Filipinos, seek justice for the corruption happening in our country. Ever since I started this blog, I have been swamped with emails from readers from all over the world who support my efforts. Some who do not understand Tagalog have reached out to their Filipino friends to translate what is happening. Others share the link to this blog through email, forums and word of mouth. Thank you.I believe that part of fighting for the truth and justice is to NOT ALLOW this story to die. We need to let each other know, peacefully, that we are aware of what the police have done and we wish justice for Francis Xavier Manzano. I would like to encourage you to wear green on Dec 7 -- a month after the incident -- to show your support for peace and justice. Let's do this every month -- until justice has been served -- to show that we are continuously aware of the injustice that was done to Francis Xavier Manzano. Let's wear our greens to show that we will not tolerate the Philippine police and military's corruption and threats against Filipinos. Even if you're not in the Philipppines... even if you're not a Filipino... please make an effort to wear green in your silent support for peace and justice for Francis Xavier Manzano.
So you have a week to prepare and to pass the word around! Dec 7 is Wednesday of next week.
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Has Martial Law Begun and No One Bothered To Tell me?!
It seems to me that the police are killing and arresting just about anyone they please.
Just in the past few weeks, the police killed a man they "suspected" to be a terrorist leader. After they killed him and rejoiced to the media of their capture, it was revealed that they killed a man who just happen to "look like" the terrorist leader.
A few days later, they killed Francis Xavier Manzano, and, again, ran to the media -- rejoicing that they just killed "suspected" carjackers. They were so proud that they gave a medal to one of their officers only a few hours after the incident. They're now finding out that they killed an innocent man who is "not" a carjacker and hates guns. To make matters worse, they're whole mistake was documented by 5 video cameras.
The following week, a group of innocent farmers sleeping on the side of the road were killed by the police. Like the incident with Francis Xavier Manzano, the police planted a gun on their scene and claimed to the media that they were suspected terrorists.
The head of the UNTV was arrested for what reason again?! Oh, I get it, for not selling out to the police corruption. Just because UNTV captured what really happened and was brave enough to show the public the truth, they're now harassed and arrested. What gives?!
Today, they arrested and jailed a "suspected" financier of a "suspected" carjacking gang, Jayjay de los Santos. This guy stepped up to clear his name, that he's not a financier, and let the people know that he knew one of the men killed to be a good person.
Anyone see a trend here, or is it just me?! Seems to me that the police got a Martial Law memo without letting the public know.
Just in the past few weeks, the police killed a man they "suspected" to be a terrorist leader. After they killed him and rejoiced to the media of their capture, it was revealed that they killed a man who just happen to "look like" the terrorist leader.
A few days later, they killed Francis Xavier Manzano, and, again, ran to the media -- rejoicing that they just killed "suspected" carjackers. They were so proud that they gave a medal to one of their officers only a few hours after the incident. They're now finding out that they killed an innocent man who is "not" a carjacker and hates guns. To make matters worse, they're whole mistake was documented by 5 video cameras.
The following week, a group of innocent farmers sleeping on the side of the road were killed by the police. Like the incident with Francis Xavier Manzano, the police planted a gun on their scene and claimed to the media that they were suspected terrorists.
The head of the UNTV was arrested for what reason again?! Oh, I get it, for not selling out to the police corruption. Just because UNTV captured what really happened and was brave enough to show the public the truth, they're now harassed and arrested. What gives?!
Today, they arrested and jailed a "suspected" financier of a "suspected" carjacking gang, Jayjay de los Santos. This guy stepped up to clear his name, that he's not a financier, and let the people know that he knew one of the men killed to be a good person.
Anyone see a trend here, or is it just me?! Seems to me that the police got a Martial Law memo without letting the public know.
Who's With the Commission of Human Rights During the Investigation?
Have you seen the TV coverage of the head of CHR (Commission of Human Rights) inspecting the victims' car riddled by bullets? Take a close look who is with her -- all the police and military
officials -- the same officials who want to cover up the murders! The car has been in their (police) possession since November 7. They have TAINTED the evidence that this was an UNJUSTIFIED MURDER of Francis Xavier Manzano!
The day after the murder, a Camp Crame officer who refuses to be named said none of the bullets came from the victims' car. Eyewitnesses have said the same. There was no shoot out! The UNTV video verifies this.
What can stop them from firing bullets just as they have placed the gun on Brian Dulay's hand as though he shot at them whereas originally his hand was on his chest? See the video! That's why Reyes, Lomibao, and Angcanan have arrogantly declared - "Bring on the lawsuits!" (Meaning, we've already tainted the evidence to the police's favor).
Please, naman, the FILIPINOS ARE INTELLIGENT and THEY CAN JUDGE FROM THE UNTV VIDEO WHAT REALLY HAPPENED!
Everyday in the newspaper, we read about the police or military killing innocent people on what they quickly claim as "legitimate operations." (See Palo, Leyte incident). The Ortigas incident has been called a "legitimate operation" and frankly without that UNTV video, there will be little public outcry. SOBRA NA!! (THIS IS TOO MUCH!!)
It would be a miracle if the Commission on Human Rights can give an unbiased report on tainted evidence but I can pray for a miracle! It is Christmas. I wonder how these policemen will enjoy the season with the innocents' blood in their hands! On second thought, sanay-sanayan lang iyan.
EXCERPT:
"CHR eyes Dec wrap to Ortigas shootout probe"
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Friday said it would finish the investigation on the alleged shooutout in Ortigas Center in Pasig by the middle of December.
In an interview with ANC, CHR Commissioner Wilhelm Soriano said they will be evaluating testimonies given during the investigation. Next in line is the questioning of the eight operatives of the police Traffic Management Group
(TMG) involved in the alleged shootout.
Soriano said the CHR committee tasked to investigate the incident is currently on a one-week break after hearing the testimony of the police Scene of the Crime Operations (SOCO) team on Thursday.
The CHR is conducting an independent inquiry of the alleged shootout between the TMG members and three suspected carjackers on November 7. The incident resulted in the death of suspects Brian Dulay, Francis Manzano and Anton Cu-Unjieng.
A video footage taken by television station UNTV showed TMG personnel firing at the seemingly inert bodies of the suspects inside an alleged stolen car.
The footage prompted the CHR probe.
Chief Superintendent Angcanan, TMG chief, said a fact-finding committee of the Philippine National Police (PNP) had already determined that the operation in Ortigas was legitimate and not a rubout. He said the TMG operation was a product of extensive intelligence operations conducted by members of Task Force Limbas.
Soriano said after the testimony of the eight TMG policemen, it would take them another week to evaluate all the evidence and depositions given at the probe. He said testimonies of the TMG members would take three hearings to finish.
After the testimonies and evaluation, Soriano said recommendations and findings would be ready by the second week of December.
On Thursday, the head of the SOCO team said they "overlooked" some details in processing the crime scene.
Senior Inspector Russel Leysa said his team did not photograph the recovered items from the suspects’ car. Leysa also revealed that TMG operatives had already marked the spent shells in the crime scene when they arrived.
officials -- the same officials who want to cover up the murders! The car has been in their (police) possession since November 7. They have TAINTED the evidence that this was an UNJUSTIFIED MURDER of Francis Xavier Manzano!
The day after the murder, a Camp Crame officer who refuses to be named said none of the bullets came from the victims' car. Eyewitnesses have said the same. There was no shoot out! The UNTV video verifies this.
What can stop them from firing bullets just as they have placed the gun on Brian Dulay's hand as though he shot at them whereas originally his hand was on his chest? See the video! That's why Reyes, Lomibao, and Angcanan have arrogantly declared - "Bring on the lawsuits!" (Meaning, we've already tainted the evidence to the police's favor).
Please, naman, the FILIPINOS ARE INTELLIGENT and THEY CAN JUDGE FROM THE UNTV VIDEO WHAT REALLY HAPPENED!
Everyday in the newspaper, we read about the police or military killing innocent people on what they quickly claim as "legitimate operations." (See Palo, Leyte incident). The Ortigas incident has been called a "legitimate operation" and frankly without that UNTV video, there will be little public outcry. SOBRA NA!! (THIS IS TOO MUCH!!)
It would be a miracle if the Commission on Human Rights can give an unbiased report on tainted evidence but I can pray for a miracle! It is Christmas. I wonder how these policemen will enjoy the season with the innocents' blood in their hands! On second thought, sanay-sanayan lang iyan.
EXCERPT:
"CHR eyes Dec wrap to Ortigas shootout probe"
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Friday said it would finish the investigation on the alleged shooutout in Ortigas Center in Pasig by the middle of December.
In an interview with ANC, CHR Commissioner Wilhelm Soriano said they will be evaluating testimonies given during the investigation. Next in line is the questioning of the eight operatives of the police Traffic Management Group
(TMG) involved in the alleged shootout.
Soriano said the CHR committee tasked to investigate the incident is currently on a one-week break after hearing the testimony of the police Scene of the Crime Operations (SOCO) team on Thursday.
The CHR is conducting an independent inquiry of the alleged shootout between the TMG members and three suspected carjackers on November 7. The incident resulted in the death of suspects Brian Dulay, Francis Manzano and Anton Cu-Unjieng.
A video footage taken by television station UNTV showed TMG personnel firing at the seemingly inert bodies of the suspects inside an alleged stolen car.
The footage prompted the CHR probe.
Chief Superintendent Angcanan, TMG chief, said a fact-finding committee of the Philippine National Police (PNP) had already determined that the operation in Ortigas was legitimate and not a rubout. He said the TMG operation was a product of extensive intelligence operations conducted by members of Task Force Limbas.
Soriano said after the testimony of the eight TMG policemen, it would take them another week to evaluate all the evidence and depositions given at the probe. He said testimonies of the TMG members would take three hearings to finish.
After the testimonies and evaluation, Soriano said recommendations and findings would be ready by the second week of December.
On Thursday, the head of the SOCO team said they "overlooked" some details in processing the crime scene.
Senior Inspector Russel Leysa said his team did not photograph the recovered items from the suspects’ car. Leysa also revealed that TMG operatives had already marked the spent shells in the crime scene when they arrived.
Monday, November 28, 2005
Quit Tapping Their Phones!
In the past 2 weeks since the TMG police realized that their corruption has been exposed for the whole world, my friends and I have noticed an odd tapping-sound on the phone lines when we called the family members of Francis Xavier. Why are the phones of the family members being tapped?! Haven't the police caused enough pain to their family?!
If the PNP (Philippine National Police) TMG (Traffic Management Group) or the IAS (Internal Affairs Service) have nothing hide, then why in the world are they tapping the phones of his family?!!! Why are they preventing the family to speak on the phone without that irritating buzzing?
If the police have nothing to hide, then please quit tapping their phones! Also, quit threatening the lives of the witnesses and anyone else willing to speak the truth.
Having power is temporary. Knowing the truth is forever. The truth will always catch up to corrupt power -- until your last breath -- and to your children's children.
If the PNP (Philippine National Police) TMG (Traffic Management Group) or the IAS (Internal Affairs Service) have nothing hide, then why in the world are they tapping the phones of his family?!!! Why are they preventing the family to speak on the phone without that irritating buzzing?
If the police have nothing to hide, then please quit tapping their phones! Also, quit threatening the lives of the witnesses and anyone else willing to speak the truth.
Having power is temporary. Knowing the truth is forever. The truth will always catch up to corrupt power -- until your last breath -- and to your children's children.
Friday, November 25, 2005
Stopping The Investigation Hides Their Lies
I just read this article, "Task force plea to hold shootout probe denied," from Inq7.net today.
EXCEPT:
"The Internal Affairs Service (IAS) of the Philippine National Police which is investigating the Pasig City shootout incident involving suspected carjackers yesterday threw out a request from the lawyer of 10 Traffic Management Group (TMG) agents that it suspend its inquiry."
What is the police trying to hide?
EXCEPT:
"The Internal Affairs Service (IAS) of the Philippine National Police which is investigating the Pasig City shootout incident involving suspected carjackers yesterday threw out a request from the lawyer of 10 Traffic Management Group (TMG) agents that it suspend its inquiry."
What is the police trying to hide?
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Dead Men Tell No Tales
I was watching the videos from the eye witness over and over again today. There's this amateur video taken by a woman and a guy from what seemed to be the balcony of their condominium. (When I get the chance, I'll see if I can post the video here.)
A thought came to mind while I was watching the amateur video: Could the 3 boys have possibly witnessed a shooting that the PNP TMG (police) were involved in prior to being chased? Is this why the PNP TMG were determined to kill these boys? I mean, is it normal for the PNP TMG to be carrying m-16 rifles with a chest/shoulder full of bullets to go after "car thieves"?! They can't even afford proper forensic tools and here they are with heavy duty machines guns! Those guns may have been possibly aimed to kill (or have already killed) someone else. These 3 boys just happen to drive by the incident and witness it -- which led to their own deaths. That would explain why the police did such a thorough job of finishing them off.... since dead men tell no tales. What do you think?
There was a news interview with the lead investigator from PNP TMG regarding this amateur video. (Don't you find it ridiculous that the PNP TMG are the ones running their own investigation as proof of what really happened? It's like asking OJ Simpson to run his own investigation as to whether or not he really killed his wife. The outcome of their investigation is quite obvious before they even started: "Um... not guilty... yeah, right... that's it.. not guilty! Ahem.") Back to the lead investigator. He says that the amateur video will not be considered in their investigation and was so quick to change the subject away from that video. What are they trying to shun away from or not give light to?
A thought came to mind while I was watching the amateur video: Could the 3 boys have possibly witnessed a shooting that the PNP TMG (police) were involved in prior to being chased? Is this why the PNP TMG were determined to kill these boys? I mean, is it normal for the PNP TMG to be carrying m-16 rifles with a chest/shoulder full of bullets to go after "car thieves"?! They can't even afford proper forensic tools and here they are with heavy duty machines guns! Those guns may have been possibly aimed to kill (or have already killed) someone else. These 3 boys just happen to drive by the incident and witness it -- which led to their own deaths. That would explain why the police did such a thorough job of finishing them off.... since dead men tell no tales. What do you think?
There was a news interview with the lead investigator from PNP TMG regarding this amateur video. (Don't you find it ridiculous that the PNP TMG are the ones running their own investigation as proof of what really happened? It's like asking OJ Simpson to run his own investigation as to whether or not he really killed his wife. The outcome of their investigation is quite obvious before they even started: "Um... not guilty... yeah, right... that's it.. not guilty! Ahem.") Back to the lead investigator. He says that the amateur video will not be considered in their investigation and was so quick to change the subject away from that video. What are they trying to shun away from or not give light to?
People, It's Just A Car!
One of the interesting blogs I found is from PoliticalJunkie.Blogspot.com, where he explains the corrupt scam behind the carnapping in the Philippines. When you're done reading this blog, check his blog out!
Excerpt:
The widespread and frequent “carnapping”/carjacking incidents have been going on for years with the majority of owners unable to recover their vehicles. In some cases, stolen vehicles have been discovered being used by police officers.
Our sources tell us this cartheft syndicate is so big it has extended its operations to Fukuoka, Japan, and San Francisco and Los Angeles in the US. The report also reveals prominent names are involved. The entry point used to be Subic and Clark but it recently shifted to Cebu and Davao.
What's sad about all this is that all this is happening for a car.
Excerpt:
The widespread and frequent “carnapping”/carjacking incidents have been going on for years with the majority of owners unable to recover their vehicles. In some cases, stolen vehicles have been discovered being used by police officers.
Our sources tell us this cartheft syndicate is so big it has extended its operations to Fukuoka, Japan, and San Francisco and Los Angeles in the US. The report also reveals prominent names are involved. The entry point used to be Subic and Clark but it recently shifted to Cebu and Davao.
What's sad about all this is that all this is happening for a car.
Blogging For Justice
I just discovered this blog called OrtigasRubout.Blogspot.com. It's 2005. I hope that the power of blogs, your readership, the Internet, and spreading the truth can help us achieve justice for our people and our country. Please keep sharing this blog to as many people as you know. It's one of the little efforts we can contribute in spreading the truth about what really happened -- and possibly gaining justice.
A Letter About FX
I recently received this email in my mailbox. I thank you the sender of this letter for sharing his opinion on this matter:
----- LETTER ABOUT FX ---------------
I am a friend of FX's cousin and I have known him since he was orphaned 17 years ago. He had no wealth or power as the police told the media. Neither was he a spoiled scion of a prominent family. FX hated and feared guns and violence so it was unbelievable when the police claimed he had to be shot close range several times in the head because he had a sub-machine gun. ATROCIOUS LIE!
He would not even know how to operate a machine gun which my uncle said only the military has access to! (Thank God for the UNTV video that showed the guns were planted and thank God the police had to admit he never shot a gun.)
FX was gentle, caring, soft spoken, very unassuming and humble. He was good looking and dressed well -- and if not for that, you would not notice him as he would never push his way around or brag or be obnoxious. He was the "favorite uncle" as he was patient with the young children and was truly caring. He had many friends -- both rich and poor as he was "masyadong mabait" (very kind) and "marunong makisama" (gets along well with others easily).
On the evening of his death, he was on his way home from a quick trip to Starbucks and McDonald's (a burger and a night cap). He's was a considerate person, which is why he called his siblings to tell them of his whereabouts and that he's on his way home. (In fact, he only wore shorts and a t-shirt that evening.) He could have been your father, your brother, your uncle, your cousin or your best friend going out for a snack in Ortigas... then murdered... and to cover the murder, had to be branded as a carnapper.
So where can you go for justice in the Philippines? Not to the police or the military -- and definitely not the Dept of (In)Justice! You and your family will be harrassed, intimidated and killed. They may even brand you as a terrorist or an NPA that is a threat to the country. It is common now to read about the journalists, innocent farmers and ordinary civilians killed and branded as threats -- and we don't do anything about it. Instead, we accept the lies. Sana magising tayo sa katotohanan. (I wish we'll wake up to the truth.)
As you pointed out, they can produce FALSE WITNESSES until the sympathy of the TV/radio audience or newspapers will be prejudiced against you. They are in power and they can detroy you!
For Example:
Without even investigating, DILG head Angelo Reyes was quick to laud the handiwork of the TMG and pin a hero's medal on a policeman who witnesses say - his gun may have dropped and hurt him! (You are right in your blog: How could he produce a medal so soon? Do they have several in their pockets?) They can call murder a shoot-out even when the victims' car windows were all closed and a video shows them planting their evidence!
Even my uncle in Camp Crame said all the bullets came from the police. Please do not go to Angcanan or Lomibao for justice as they have to protect the murderers for the sake of the morale of their men! Isn't speaking the truth better than covered up lies for the morale of all men? Lastly, do not go to the head of the Dept of (IN)Justice who without even looking at the case from all sides smugly declared the TMG was justified -- it is okay to "kill dead men" but, oops... when they learned that FX Manzano's body was not cremated and could be exhumed, Angcanan had to confess he was still alive and could have been saved but his policemen considered him a threat and had to shoot him in the head several times.
Ten armed policemen against 3 hurt young men already peppered by 50 bullets! The TMG will not release their full report to the media and initially said it was incomplete because they had not yet interviewed the 10 policemen involved. As you said - what do you expect their report to say if the testimony of the murderers being investigated weighs more than the witnesses? How can the dead defend themselves - they were the ones branded guilty without an opportunity to prove their innocence!
But what would FX Manzano say to all of these blogs? He would say, "FORGIVE them as JUSTICE BELONGS TO THE LORD. If we cannot get justice on earth, we will get this in heaven." FX would say: "HAVE FAITH, TRUST GOD. He is in control. This does not make sense now but God has a plan - trust Him."
FX always taught the young children and his cousins to be patient, to be forgiving and let offenses slide off their shoulders as God does not approve of a bitter heart. Jesus forgave His enemies who said terrible lies about Him and then crucified Him. If we pray the OUR FATHER, we will not be forgiven our sins if we cannot FORGIVE the TMG hierarchy, the 10 policemen and the misguided in our society. We forgive these persons but we do not condone the sins they committed.
We need to speak the truth always and fight against injustice. Do not judge rashly the people condemned by the media or the government. Like FX, evidence against them may be planted and FALSE WITNESSES are easily brought up. Do not delay telling people you love them as you never know - they may just go for coffee or a burger and be killed and lost to you.
His sister bought two Bibles, one of which was placed in FX's casket and coincidentally both Bibles opened to Psalm 64 and they believe this is his message from the grave:
O God, hear my anguished voice; from the foes I dread protect my life.
Hide me from the malicious crowd, the mob of evildoers.
They sharpen their tongues like swords, ready their bows for arrows of poison words.
They shoot at the innocent from ambush, shoot without risk, catch them unawares.
They resolve on their wicked plan; they conspire to set snares; they say:
"Who will see us?"
They devise wicked schemes, conceal the schemes they devise; the designs of their hearts are hidden.
But God will shoot arrows at them and strike them unawares.
They will be brought down by their own tongues; all who see them will shake their heads.
Then all will fear and proclaim God's deed, pondering what has been done.
The just will rejoice and take refuge in the LORD; all the upright will glory in their God.
----- LETTER ABOUT FX ---------------
I am a friend of FX's cousin and I have known him since he was orphaned 17 years ago. He had no wealth or power as the police told the media. Neither was he a spoiled scion of a prominent family. FX hated and feared guns and violence so it was unbelievable when the police claimed he had to be shot close range several times in the head because he had a sub-machine gun. ATROCIOUS LIE!
He would not even know how to operate a machine gun which my uncle said only the military has access to! (Thank God for the UNTV video that showed the guns were planted and thank God the police had to admit he never shot a gun.)
FX was gentle, caring, soft spoken, very unassuming and humble. He was good looking and dressed well -- and if not for that, you would not notice him as he would never push his way around or brag or be obnoxious. He was the "favorite uncle" as he was patient with the young children and was truly caring. He had many friends -- both rich and poor as he was "masyadong mabait" (very kind) and "marunong makisama" (gets along well with others easily).
On the evening of his death, he was on his way home from a quick trip to Starbucks and McDonald's (a burger and a night cap). He's was a considerate person, which is why he called his siblings to tell them of his whereabouts and that he's on his way home. (In fact, he only wore shorts and a t-shirt that evening.) He could have been your father, your brother, your uncle, your cousin or your best friend going out for a snack in Ortigas... then murdered... and to cover the murder, had to be branded as a carnapper.
So where can you go for justice in the Philippines? Not to the police or the military -- and definitely not the Dept of (In)Justice! You and your family will be harrassed, intimidated and killed. They may even brand you as a terrorist or an NPA that is a threat to the country. It is common now to read about the journalists, innocent farmers and ordinary civilians killed and branded as threats -- and we don't do anything about it. Instead, we accept the lies. Sana magising tayo sa katotohanan. (I wish we'll wake up to the truth.)
As you pointed out, they can produce FALSE WITNESSES until the sympathy of the TV/radio audience or newspapers will be prejudiced against you. They are in power and they can detroy you!
For Example:
Without even investigating, DILG head Angelo Reyes was quick to laud the handiwork of the TMG and pin a hero's medal on a policeman who witnesses say - his gun may have dropped and hurt him! (You are right in your blog: How could he produce a medal so soon? Do they have several in their pockets?) They can call murder a shoot-out even when the victims' car windows were all closed and a video shows them planting their evidence!
Even my uncle in Camp Crame said all the bullets came from the police. Please do not go to Angcanan or Lomibao for justice as they have to protect the murderers for the sake of the morale of their men! Isn't speaking the truth better than covered up lies for the morale of all men? Lastly, do not go to the head of the Dept of (IN)Justice who without even looking at the case from all sides smugly declared the TMG was justified -- it is okay to "kill dead men" but, oops... when they learned that FX Manzano's body was not cremated and could be exhumed, Angcanan had to confess he was still alive and could have been saved but his policemen considered him a threat and had to shoot him in the head several times.
Ten armed policemen against 3 hurt young men already peppered by 50 bullets! The TMG will not release their full report to the media and initially said it was incomplete because they had not yet interviewed the 10 policemen involved. As you said - what do you expect their report to say if the testimony of the murderers being investigated weighs more than the witnesses? How can the dead defend themselves - they were the ones branded guilty without an opportunity to prove their innocence!
But what would FX Manzano say to all of these blogs? He would say, "FORGIVE them as JUSTICE BELONGS TO THE LORD. If we cannot get justice on earth, we will get this in heaven." FX would say: "HAVE FAITH, TRUST GOD. He is in control. This does not make sense now but God has a plan - trust Him."
FX always taught the young children and his cousins to be patient, to be forgiving and let offenses slide off their shoulders as God does not approve of a bitter heart. Jesus forgave His enemies who said terrible lies about Him and then crucified Him. If we pray the OUR FATHER, we will not be forgiven our sins if we cannot FORGIVE the TMG hierarchy, the 10 policemen and the misguided in our society. We forgive these persons but we do not condone the sins they committed.
We need to speak the truth always and fight against injustice. Do not judge rashly the people condemned by the media or the government. Like FX, evidence against them may be planted and FALSE WITNESSES are easily brought up. Do not delay telling people you love them as you never know - they may just go for coffee or a burger and be killed and lost to you.
His sister bought two Bibles, one of which was placed in FX's casket and coincidentally both Bibles opened to Psalm 64 and they believe this is his message from the grave:
O God, hear my anguished voice; from the foes I dread protect my life.
Hide me from the malicious crowd, the mob of evildoers.
They sharpen their tongues like swords, ready their bows for arrows of poison words.
They shoot at the innocent from ambush, shoot without risk, catch them unawares.
They resolve on their wicked plan; they conspire to set snares; they say:
"Who will see us?"
They devise wicked schemes, conceal the schemes they devise; the designs of their hearts are hidden.
But God will shoot arrows at them and strike them unawares.
They will be brought down by their own tongues; all who see them will shake their heads.
Then all will fear and proclaim God's deed, pondering what has been done.
The just will rejoice and take refuge in the LORD; all the upright will glory in their God.
Raw Video! You Be The Judge : Shootout or Rubout?
I just got a submission of the raw video taken by UNTV that's now available on their website.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW CLIP #1
CLICK HERE TO VIEW CLIP #2
Backround info on what you are about to see: These are unmarked Philippine police (no uniform and unmarked car) who shot at these 3 boys, claiming that they were car thieves. Francis Xavier Manzano was in the backseat. You will see the police shoot the boys a few more times even after they have immobilized them. The police "claim" these boys are "suspected" (not proven and they have no proof) are car thieves. After shooting these boys to death, the police planted evidence to support their defense and are now in a mission to come up with ways and reasons to justify their actions. Keep you eye at the placement of the hand of the frontseat passenger. It's on his shoulder. Yet when the police shows it to the media, it's over a gun. Let your eyes be the judge.
My fingers are shaking as I type this. I just saw the footage. It hurts to see people you know who are good and innocent killed this way. It hurts to know that the police are destroying his reputation in order to defend their actions. It hurts to think it can happen to somebody else if justice and truth is not resolved in this case.
Welcome to my third world country! Help us gain peace and justice, please.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW CLIP #1
CLICK HERE TO VIEW CLIP #2
Backround info on what you are about to see: These are unmarked Philippine police (no uniform and unmarked car) who shot at these 3 boys, claiming that they were car thieves. Francis Xavier Manzano was in the backseat. You will see the police shoot the boys a few more times even after they have immobilized them. The police "claim" these boys are "suspected" (not proven and they have no proof) are car thieves. After shooting these boys to death, the police planted evidence to support their defense and are now in a mission to come up with ways and reasons to justify their actions. Keep you eye at the placement of the hand of the frontseat passenger. It's on his shoulder. Yet when the police shows it to the media, it's over a gun. Let your eyes be the judge.
My fingers are shaking as I type this. I just saw the footage. It hurts to see people you know who are good and innocent killed this way. It hurts to know that the police are destroying his reputation in order to defend their actions. It hurts to think it can happen to somebody else if justice and truth is not resolved in this case.
Welcome to my third world country! Help us gain peace and justice, please.
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