AFP respects court decision on Palparan, ex-officers

Former Major General Jovito Palparan (center) walks out of the Malolos Regional Trial Court escorted by soldiers on Monday, Sept. 17, 2018, after being convicted of kidnapping and serious illegal detention of University of the Philippines (UP) students Sherlyn Cadapan and Karen Empeno in 2006. PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER / NIÑO JESUS ORBETA

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) respects and abides by the court’s decision to convict former Major General Jovito Palparan and other former military officers for kidnapping two college students, spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo said Monday.

“As it has been and always will be, the position of the AFP is submission to the majesty of the courts and respect for the rule of law,” Arevalo said in a statement.

Judge Alexander Tamayo of the Malolos Regional Trial Court found Palparan, Lt. Col. Felipe Anotado, Jr. and Staff Sgt. Edgardo Osorio guilty of kidnapping University of the Philippines (UP) students Sherlyn Cadapan and Karen Empeno in 2006.

All three were sentenced to reclusion perpetua, or 20 years and one day to 40 years of imprisonment, and were ordered to pay P100,000 for civil indemnity and P200,000 for moral damages for each count.

Another accused, Master Sgt. Rizal Hilario, remains at large.

READ: Palparan guilty of kidnapping UP students

According to Arevalo, they have yet to receive a copy of the decision.  He added that they would respect any legal action taken by Palparan.

“We also respect whatever legal recourse are available to and will be availed of by MGen Palparan, Jr. et al. under the law and the Rules of Court,” he added. /cbb