Palace backs security arrangements at Baby River’s funeral

MANILA, Philippines – Amid questions about alleged “excessive” security measures for the funeral of Baby River, daughter of detained activist Reina Mae Nasino, Malacañang said he respects the authorities’ judgment on what may be considered necessary about the ground.

“Alam niyo po, the president does not micromanage. And when it comes to the security of a defendant facing a non-bail crime, the president can never substitute for the judgment of the commander on the ground, ”Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said Monday. in an online briefing.

“So we respect any decision the commander might have made on the ground. If you thought that security arrangement was necessary, so be it, “he added.

The number of staff from the Bureau of Prison Management and Penology (BJMP) who secured the funeral of the detainee’s son drew criticism from various sectors and individuals, including Vice President Leni Robredo, who said the incident showed the lack of compassion and humanity of The authorities.

When Nasino first visited his daughter’s wake, tension erupted after prison guards prevented her from being interviewed by members of the media.

The National Union of People’s Lawyers, which represents Nasino, said it can file formal complaints against staff involved in the tension.