Judge Alameda must decide with finality on Cong. Beltran’s immediate release

The militant labor center Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) today said that Makati Regional Trial Court Judge Elmo Alameda must decide with finality and immediately release KMU Chairman Emeritus and Anakpawis Rep. Crispin Beltran who has been illegally detained for purported rebellion charges since February 25 after Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declared Proclamation 1017.

“We expect the resolution of this case as soon as possible. There is no valid reason to Ka Bel’s continued detention. His health condition is not getting better even if he is confined at the Heart Center . The pressure and stress of his continued illegal detention adds up to his deteriorating physical condition. But even under this situation, his moral and spirits are always high as he is constantly inspired by the relentless struggle of Filipino workers. Even from his hospital room, Ka Bel ensures the promotion of workers’ interests and welfare. He is alarmed with the condition of our compatriots and fellow workers in Lebanon and irked with the government’s sluggish evacuation efforts,” said KMU Secretary General Joel Maglunsod.

The labor group, Free Ka Bel Movement, Anakpawis Party and other groups staged a support picket for Beltran and the Batasan 5 solons at Makati Regional Trial Court this morning coinciding with the clarificatory hearing scheduled by the court. The hearing is in relation to thirteen pending motions and manifestations on the consolidated rebellion charges filed against Beltran, the Batasan 5 solons, and six legal personalities, including KMU National Council Member and Anakpawis Vice-President for External Affairs Rafael Baylosis.

“The pressuring and dirty tactics employed by the Department of Justice (DOJ), initiated no less than DOJ Chief Raul Gonzales is too much. Gonzales must stop intervening and aggravating the case of Beltran and the Batasan 5 solons. Instead of talking nonsense and issuing statements like an imbecile that he is, Gonzales better consider early retirement,” Maglunsod said.

The labor leader noted that Alameda is the third judge to handle the case after previous judges Encarnacion Jaja Moya and Renato Quilala inhibited in the case due to DOJ’s obvious manipulation and pressure.