Youth group wants Aquino out, eyes Roxas as replacement
MANILA, Philippines―Students from various schools in Metro Manila demanded President Benigno Aquino III to step down from his post following the bungled operation in Mamasapano which killed 44 members of the Special Action Force.
The event, dubbed as “Unity Walk for Truth and Accountability”, was organized by the Youth Act Now alliance.
Youth Act Now Manila spokesperson Christian Magsoy blasted the President for not showing sympathy for the bereaved families a month after the bloodshed.
Magsoy also cited reports how Aquino disrespected the widows and relatives of the fallen troopers by allegedly saying that he understand the pain they are feeling because he has also lost his father.
“The past few days showed how the President disrespected the families of the SAF 44 by saying that they are “equal” because he also lost his father. We think that it was not the appropriate response as the families view him as the brains behind the operation,” Magsoy said in Filipino.
The protesters wore black arm bands and donned shirts with “#NasaanAngPangulo” printed on it.
Lianne Timenia, Manila City spokesperson for the alliance, said that Aquino should resign and admit his involvement in the operation.
Meanwhile, the alliance said that after Aquino’s resignation, a “transition council” should be instituted. Magsoy emphasized that the “transition council” is not intended to push Vice President Jejomar Binay to the presidency as anyone could lead the said governing body, including Interior Secretary Mar Roxas.
“Mar Roxas can lead the transition council because he is being bypassed by the President. If Mar Roxas wants to know the truth, he should stand and exact accountability from those involved in the bloody operation,” Magsoy added.
The walk began at Luneta Park and ended at Ermita Church.
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