Ex-AFP officials ‘innocent until proven guilty’ —spokesman

MANILA, Philippines— Former military officials embroiled in plunder charges “are innocent until proven guilty” and that the public must not judge them this early, a military spokesman said Thursday.

“Remember that these officers, just like any other accused, are innocent until proven guilty by competent authority,” said Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman Brigadier General Jose Mabanta.

“There is no result yet. We’ll just have to wait for the result,” he added.

He also expressed sadness over the controversy which involved retired chiefs of staff and other high ranking officers. He said it has caused a dent in the military’s image.

“We feel sad there is a growing perception that it is still happening right now. By and large, most of these exposes are a thing (of) the past,” Mabanta said.

He added that there have been reforms in the military system to stop and prevent corruption in the military.

Meanwhile, the military official said that they will make available all officials in active service that may be called by the court to testify on the case.

“As long as they are required by competent authorities, we will allow members of the armed forces (to testify),” Mabanta said.

“We believe in openness and transparency,” he added.