Video by RYAN LEAGOGO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Former President Fidel V. Ramos on Wednesday chided President Benigno Aquino III for not apologizing for the bungled operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, which killed at least 67 people last Jan. 25.
In a press conference, Ramos hit Aquino’s defiance in owning up to the operation.
“Why is it so difficult for him to say sorry about that?” Ramos told reporters.
He said an apology could have allowed the President to redeem himself, adding it might already be too late.
“Saying I’m sorry humbly and sincerely would do 90 percent of the job but hurt has gone deeper,” said Ramos.
Ramos said that Aquino’s refusal to apologize only reinforced calls for his resignation.
Malacañang in previous pronouncements said Aquino already owned up to the Mamasapano operation and yet the President had not apologized for it.