Maguindanao, Philippines - On the 14th commemoration of the Ampatuan massacre, the National Press Club (NPC) has called on government authorities to intensify efforts to arrest the remaining suspects involved in the massacre of 58 people, including 32 media workers, that occurred on November 23, 2009, in Maguindanao.
According to Philippines News Agency, NPC president Lydia Bueno stressed the need for justice, pointing out that while 44 suspects have been convicted, approximately 83 perpetrators are still at large. The massacre, which targeted individuals accompanying then Buluan Vice Mayor Esmael Mangudadatu to file his candidacy for the 2010 gubernatorial elections, is considered one of the deadliest attacks on journalists in history. Andal Ampatuan Jr. and his brother Zaldy, the primary accused, were sentenced to life imprisonment in December 2019. The NPC has consistently advocated for justice for the slain journalists since the incident. To honor the victims, the NPC organized a photo exhibit, candle lighting, and a Holy Mass at their grounds. NPC Secretary Leonel Abasola also mentioned the financial support extended to the relatives of the slain media workers through initiatives spearheaded by former NPC president Benny Antiporda.