Due Process Delays General Court Martial
Four months have passed since a Philippine Air Force major general faced allegations of sexual assault, yet the Armed Forces of the Philippines has not convened a general court martial to determine the outcome. The delay is attributed to the strict observance of due process, according to military officials.
A spokesperson for the Armed Forces emphasized that the case is moving forward methodically. “The process is moving forward as it should. It is going to be handled by the book. Due process will be conducted and there will be no shortcuts to this. It will be shielded from any influence and it is clear that the AFP justice system will prevail accordingly,” said a military representative during a briefing at Camp Aguinaldo.
Details of the Allegations and Investigation
The case began when two junior officers filed a complaint through the military’s ethical standards office in late January. They accuse a high-ranking Air Force official of sexually abusing them after a group outing in Lipa City, Batangas.
The victims claim the incident took place on January 29, where the major general allegedly instructed them to stay in his quarters and subjected them to inappropriate acts. The accused general has denied these allegations, stating that the officers could have resisted if the claims were true.
Following the complaint, a pre-trial investigation established enough evidence to proceed with legal action. However, the recommendation to hold a general court martial must first be reviewed and approved by the AFP Chief of Staff, who has the authority to initiate the trial.
Awaiting Approval and Ensuring Transparency
Military officials assure the public that all options are being carefully considered and emphasize that no cover-ups will be tolerated. The case is being prepared thoroughly to maintain the integrity of the military justice system.
The accused general faces charges under military laws concerning conduct unbecoming an officer and actions detrimental to military discipline.
Support for the Victims and Military Conduct Policies
Meanwhile, the two junior officers involved have returned to their duties after taking a brief mental health leave in February. They received legal and psychological support but chose to consult private counsel and therapists.
Representatives from the Air Force described the incident as isolated and reassured that personnel are well-trained about their rights and relevant laws, including the Safe Spaces Act, which protects individuals from sexual harassment and abuse.
“From the beginning, the personnel are well trained, indoctrinated on their rights, on the policies. For instance, the Republic Act 1313 or the Safe Spaces Act, so they know their rights,” a military spokesperson said.
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