AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla (Photo: Martin Sadongdong / MANILA BULLETIN)

Four months after an alleged rape incident involving a Philippine Air Force (PAF) major general, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has yet to convene a general court martial (GCM) to determine the guilt of the ranking official, but a military spokesperson explained that it was because due process is being observed.

AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla assured the public that the case is progressing, with a case build-up currently underway to establish all the facts surrounding the case.

“The process is moving forward as it should. It is going to be handled by the book. Due process will be conducted and there will be no shortcuts to this. It will be shielded from any influence and it is clear that the AFP justice system will prevail accordingly,” she said in a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Tuesday, May 27.

To recall, two junior officers of the PAF filed a complaint with the AFP’s Office of Ethical Standards and Public Accountability (OESPA) on January 30, accusing a PAF major general of sexually abusing them.

According to the victims, the incident occurred on January 29 when the major general allegedly directed them to sleep in his quarters in Lipa City, Batangas after a group night out and perform indecent sexual acts. 

The general denied the accusation, saying that the junior officers could have easily overpowered him.

The AFP said a pre-trial investigation was immediately conducted and prima facie evidence was established warranting further legal action. 

The AFP explained that the recommendation for the establishment of a general court martial needs to be reviewed first prior to its approval. 

The case is currently awaiting the approval of AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., who holds the authority to convene the general court martial proceedings.

“All options are being considered and let's assure that it is going to be prepared and there will be no cover-ups,” AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad noted.

Back to work

Meanwhile, the two junior officers have since returned to work after taking a 10-day mental health break in February.

“Right after the incident, they were given a mental health break and they were offered legal and psychological assistance as well. But they opted to get their private counsel and to be psychologically checked outside. But they are back to work,” said acting PAF spokesperson Col. Ritza Ann M. Jovellanos. 

She said the incident was an “isolated case.”

“From the get-go, from the start, the personnel are well trained, indoctrinated on their rights, on the policies. For instance, the Republic Act 1313 or the Safe Spaces Act, so they know their rights,” Jovellanos added.