Family of ‘SAF44’ file charges against Aquino, asks Duterte for justice

After being charged with graft and corruption, technical malversation, and usurpation of legislative powers, former president Benigno Aquino III has a new case filed against him.

Relatives of the slain Special Action Force (SAF) officers filed a complaint of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide against Aquino, former SAF commander Getulio Napeñas and former Philippine National Police chief Alan Purisima. The charges were filed at the Office of the Ombudsman on July 15.

According to a Philippine Daily Inquirer report, Julie Danao, mother of slain PO2 Walner Danao, the SAF officer who was killed in the viral video, said, “I am asking for justice. We have been waiting for this for so long. Until now, it has been a year and seven months. We ask for justice for our sons who died in Mamasapano.”

With Danao are Celestino Kiangan, father of PO2 Noble Kiangan, and Felecitas Nacino, mother of PO2 Nicky Nacino.

Danao asked for help from incumbent President Rodrigo Duterte to give them justice.

“Kay President Duterte, we need justice [because] I know you’ll understand and you’ll help us. We’re here to claim your word. You said that whoever was at fault would be held accountable. We are now here asking for justice!” Danao was quoted in the same Inquirer report.

Prior to this complaint, two other relatives of SAF officers have filed charges after Aquino’s last day as president.

According to Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) spokesperson Boy Evangelista, Aquino can expect 15 more SAF relatives to file charges against the former commander-in-chief now that he’s no longer immune to lawsuits.



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