De Lima hits SC decision on no live coverage of massacre trial

Department of Justice Secretary Leila de Lima. JOSEPH VIDAL/PRIB FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Justice Secretary Leila De Lima said the decision of the Supreme Court disallowing live media coverage of the Maguindanao massacre trial was “not a good move, not a good development.”

“With due respect to the Supreme Court, I don’t think it is a good decision (disallowing live media coverage of the Maguindanao massacre trial). Remember, this is the trial of the century and with live media coverage, the trial will remain in the consciousness of the public,” De Lima told reporters Monday.

She said, with live media coverage, the public can monitor the progress of the case and it can prevent any dilatory tactics on the part of the accused.

The high court, in reversing its June 2011 resolution said the rights of the accused must be protected.

But De Lima said a guidelines can be set in place to stop protect his rights.