Recommendation on ‘Abadilla 5’ not yet with Aquino — Palace aide

MERRY CHRISTMAS? Tension is writ all over the faces of the five accused in the killing of former PC Colonel and Ilocos Norte Vice Gov. Rolando Abadilla as they await the promulgation of the case by Judge Jaime Salazar on Aug. 11, 1999, in Quezon City. The judge found the five guilty but they have steadfastly professed innocence. INQUIRER PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – The recommendation of the Board of Pardons and Parole for the commutation of the life sentences of those convicted of the murder of Marcos-era police official Rolando Abadilla has yet to reach the desk of President Benigno Aquino III, a Malacañang aide said on Saturday.

“I was told it has yet to reach President Aquino. I will check with the [Office of the Executive Secretary] and the Department of Justice as to the movement of the paper work,” deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said on radio.

Valte said she has been informed that there were other recommendations in connection with the bid for clemency for the so-called Abadilla Five. The official said she would have to confer with the DoJ regarding this.