PALACE ASSURES HUMAN RIGHTS VICTIMS OF JUST 'SHARE' IN RECOVERED WEALTH

MALACANANG, January 17, 2004 (OPS) President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo today assured victims of human rights violations that they would be justly and equitably compensated after the Supreme Court (SC) decided with finality to order the Sandiganbayan to start forfeiture proceedings on the $658-million Marcos Swiss account being held in escrow by the Philippine National Bank (PNB).

In her statement, the Chief Executive said the decision of the high tribunal only reinforces government pursuit of justice no matter how much time was spent for the purpose.

She also vowed to continue working with the Congress to ensure that the victims of human rights during martial law are compensated under fair and equitable terms.

"This is the core of our social agenda which encompasses jobs, healthcare, housing and clean water. This is part of the fight for change for the average Filipino," the President said.

Meanwhile, in a press briefing, Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye confirmed that the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has submitted to the President the detailed plans for the utilization of the recovered asset.

Bunye said the Chief Executive has earlier directed DAR to come up with a specific plan to guarantee that the bulk of the funds are used for the government’s agrarian reform program and to compensate the victims of human rights during the Marcos regime.

The SC, in a decision it handed down in July last year, declared the $658-million escrow account as part of government funds. The tribunal also nullified the order of Hawaii District Court Judge Manuel Real freezing all Marcos assets for lack of jurisdiction.