AFP tells militants not to use death of Rosal’s baby for anti-gov’t propaganda

MANILA, Philippines- The Armed Forces of the Philippines Public Affairs Office chief, Lieutenant Colonel Ramon Zagala, on Tuesday said that everyone should let Andrea Rosal and her family to mourn on the passing of two-day-old Diona Andrea.

“Let the family mourn on the loss and do not use the death to advance any political agenda,” Zagala said.

Militant groups have used the death of the baby to lambast the AFP on the alleged maltreatment of Rosal who was arrested on her seventh month of pregnancy and, as her sympathizers claim, caused the daughter of the late Ka Roger Rosal to miss her checkup.

“We like to appeal to those individuals or groups who use the passing of the infant as a way to advance any political messages,” Zagala said. “It was an unfortunate event and we sympathize with the family and we send our condolences to them.”

Supporters of Andrea Rosal stage an indignation rally infront of Philippine General Hospital in Manila to condemn her reincarcelation to Camp Bagong Diwa following the death of her daughter. RICHARD A. REYES/INQUIRER

Zagala added that the AFP only aided on the arrest of Rosal, who was charged with kidnapping, murder, and attempted homicide, and assured that all captured rebels are given proper medical care and attention.

He explained that all captured rebels are treated for any wounds or complications, and given medical care before turning them over to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.

“To blame anyone for the death of this infant is both callous and unfair,” Zagala said. “This child is innocent and her death should not be exploited by anyone.”

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