Oban to act on Al Barka clash recommendations before he steps down next Monday

MANILA, Philippines—Outgoing Armed Forces chief of staff General Eduardo Oban is set to act on the recommendations of the court of inquiry that looked into the October 18 killing of soldiers in Al Barka, Basilan, before he steps down next week, a military spokesman said.

Public affairs chief Colonel Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos said Oban had already received a copy of the findings of the inquiry court which, he said, “has no power to impose punishment but recommend action for the chief of staff. The chief of staff … can approve the recommendation, but he has to inform the commander-in chief, President Benigno Aquino III.”

The recommendations could lead to court martial, Burgos explained. “Whatever that is, whatever the recommendation, he will act on it before he retires.”

The court of inquiry was earlier formed to find out who among its ranks are culpable in the clash with Moro rebels in Al Barka, Basilan, wherein 19 Special Forces soldiers were killed. The court of inquiry is headed by Commodore Crispin Mercado, the deputy inspector general.

Oban had ordered the creation of a court of inquiry after receiving the findings of the board of inquiry, headed by AFP Inspector General Major General Irineo Espino. The findings of the board’s report remain confidential.

Oban is scheduled to retire on December 12.—Frances Mangosing