Canadian envoy calls for speedy Maguindanao massacre trial

MANILA, Philippines—Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines Christopher Thornley urged the Philippine government on Wednesday to ensure that the prosecution of those responsible for the 2009 Maguindanao massacre is “completed in a timely and credible manner.”

In a statement furnished the Inquirer, Thornley said Canada “stands with the Filipino people in the call for the rule of law to prevail and for those responsible to be brought to justice.”

“In remembering the victims, Canada understands that the massacre was not only an act of violence, but also an attack on the values shared by Canadians and Filipinos. Human rights, freedom of the press, freedom of expression and the right to free and fair elections are the cornerstones of our societies and must be respected and protected,” the envoy said.

On the “more recent violence in Western Mindanao,” Thornley expressed hope that a “lasting settlement can be found through the ongoing peace process” between the government and secessionist Moro Islamic Liberation Front.