Unas, Ocampo and Singson as witnesses

This is a rejoinder to Rigoberto Tiglao’s Jan. 5 column lamenting the Philippine press’ subservience to Malacañang and its abdication of its duty to uphold democracy.

First, Tiglao faulted the press for accepting Norie Unas as a credible witness against Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Tiglao alleged that Unas is not like Chavit Singson or Clarissa Ocampo, who were credible and disinterested witnesses against Joseph Estrada. I agree with him that Ocampo was indeed a credible and disinterested witness. But Singson? He never was; he testified against Joseph Estrada to save his skin.

Unas might have been close to the Ampatuans and thus has a questionable past by association. However, this relationship does not prevent him from revealing the truth and what he personally knows, like the incriminating conversations between Arroyo and Zaldy Ampatuan Sr., which he personally heard.

Placing Unas under the Witness Protection Program of the government is imperative because what he will testify to and the incidents and circumstances he saw will definitely put on the spot somebody who still possesses residual power and influence. This is the way the press has projected Unas in its reports and there is no reason for Tiglao to say that it is abdicating its duty to uphold democracy.

Second, Judge Jesus Mupas has been known in judicial circles as an honest and efficient judge and whatever administrative cases Tiglao has alleged against him are of no moment.

Third, Tiglao’s fanatic devotion to Arroyo has darkened his mind such that he is now shooting the messenger (Unas) in order to save the accused (Arroyo).

Fourth, Arroyo lost her credibility during her nine long years of misgovernance. She was spared the wringer of various impeachment bids only because she had under her control fanatic legislators whose fanaticism Tiglao is now the epitome. Tiglao’s idol may have been immune to charges of corruption during her reign, but not anymore these days. She has to face all the charges against her and, if found guilty, answer for her misdeeds. Tiglao might just be shocked out of his wits once witnesses and incriminating documentary evidence are presented against his beleaguered idol during the trial.

—JACKLORD ALBA,

125 Crumb St., Digos City