News / World
Philippine President Gloria Arroyo Pardons Army Officers Involved in Failed Coup
Philippine President Gloria Arroyo has issued a pardon for nine army officers who were involved in a failed coup attempt in 2003.
The pardon came as Arroyo took part in a ceremony installing a new military chief.
After spending nearly five years in prison the officers gained their freedom following outgoing military chief General Hermogenes Esperon’s appeal for their release. He had said the men displayed remorse and contrition for their actions.
In July 2003 a group of about 300 officers and troops seized a hotel and shopping center and demanded that Arroyo step down. The mutiny lasted one day before they surrendered. Several were handed lengthy prison sentences including two that were sentenced to life.
In making her decision to pardon the nine officers Arroyo told those gathered at the ceremony on Monday, “The nation wants peace, order and stability, not more political shenanigans.”
As a condition of their release the officers will not be allowed to return to the army.
For more World News please go to:
