Zaldy Ampatuan back in jail a day before Maguindanao massacre case promulgation

MANILA, Philippines — Former  Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao governor Zaldy Ampatuan has been discharged from Makati Medical Center and is back at his detention cell at the Quezon City Jail Annex inside Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City a day before the promulgation of judgment on the Maguindanao massacre case.

Ampatuan’s transfer back to Camp Bagong Diwa from the Makati Medical Center was ordered by the Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 221. Ampatuan left the Makati Medical Center at 2:03 p.m. and arrived at Camp Bagong Diwa at 2:17 p.m. He was escorted by elements of the BJMP and Makati Police.

Ampatuan, who is one of the main accused in the 2009 Maguindanao massacre case, had been confined at the Makati Medical Center since October after suffering a stroke.

In an order dated December 17, Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 221 directed the transfer of Ampatuan back to Camp Bagong Diwa, saying he is “neurologically stable with no more complaint of headache and dizziness.”

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology stressed that strict security protocols will be observed during the promulgation of the case.

“Strict security protocols will be observed inside Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City particularly at the court room, the venue of promulgation in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Supreme Court,” the BJMP said in its statement.

The High Court earlier ruled allowed the live media coverage of the promulgation subject to guidelines.

Only two cameras from the state-run PTV will be allowed inside and a designated media room will be provided for reporters. Also, only accredited media will be allowed inside Camp Bagong Diwa.

Edited by MUF