SC defers action on revival of Kuratong case

MANILA, Philippines - The Supreme Court took cognizance of the motion of the families of the slain Kuratong Baleleng members who are seeking to revive the murder case against police officials, including now Senator Panfilo Lacson. In a minute resolution, the high tribunal "resolved to note the second motion to resolve... filed by [one of the slain members’ parents Perfecto and Myrna Abalora]." The issue stemmed from the alleged indiscriminate killing of the 11 members of kidnapping syndicate Kuratong Baleleng in 1999. The Presidential Anti-Crime Commission, led by Mr. Lacson, claimed the action was a legitimate one. In 2003, the high court ruled that the Quezon City Regional Trial Court hear the case against Mr. Lacson and 33 other police officials. The trial court however dismissed the case, finding there was no probable cause to indict the officials. The special prosecuting team however claimed they have new evidence against Mr. Lacson and the other officials, prompting them to file anew a motion before the high court that the case be remanded back to the trial court. — Ira P. Pedrasa, BusinessWorld