DAVAO CITY, 27 May — Presidential Assistant Jesus Dureza has asked government officials to verify their facts first before issuing any public statement that only tends to muddle the situation concerning the assault on the Pearl Farm Beach Resort.
“It’s the height of irresponsibility,” Dureza said. “It is too easy to grandstand at the expense of our military and police agencies,” he added.
He pointed out that officials could help the situation by “shutting up” and let the authorities finish their investigation. “You don’t play around with Mindanao,” Dureza said.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is still investigating and is in the process of identifying the members of the group. PNP Regional Director Eduardo Matillano yesterday said they would be filing charges of murder and frustrated murder, including damage to property against the suspects.
Presidential Secretary for Rural Development Paul Dominguez however said the military and police were able to respond appropriately to the situation.
“Despite the unfortunate incident, what is important is on how we respond. This is now a clear example of the openness of the military and police authorities,” Dominguez said.
He however appealed to the media to stick to facts, adding that “speculative reporting” tends to alarm and make the situation much more difficult to handle.
