I met with mixed feelings the news about the decision of the Office of the Ombudsman that there is probable cause to file charges against former President Benigno S. Aquino, along with former Police Chief Purisima and former Special Action Force Director Getulio Napeñas in relation to the tragic Mamasapano Incident.
On the one hand, I am aware that this development is likely something that the survivors of the incident, and the families left behind by those who perished, will welcome, as it could bring a sense of relief and justice for those who risked and lost their lives in the service of our country on that fateful day.
While I could never begrudge the victims and their loved ones, nor the Ombudsman for making such a judgment call, my sentiments and prayers also go out to former President PNoy, whom I also know welcomes this opportunity to, once and for all, defend himself and clear his name.
To hold the lives of millions in one’s hands is not an easy job, and I know that he was never one to treat lightly, much less with hubris, the task of sending his people out to risk their lives. He valued and respected human lives too much for that, so I know that the outcome of the Mamasapano incident was, for him, quite difficult and painful in many ways.
I pray for PNoy to have the strength and faith to see him through these trying times.