Netizens frustrated at reopening of Mamasapano probe

MANILA, Philippines – Frustration was high among netizens who felt the reopening of the Mamasapano probe  on Wednesday, January 27, was useless and used for political grandstanding.

Senator Grace Poe said nothing would change in their findings despite giving Senator Juan Ponce Enrile an opportunity to ask his questions.

This led one user, George Carino, to call it “a waste of time” that only “provided an opportunity for grandstanding for some senators.” 

Others were skeptical of the motives behind reopening the probe, especially since one of the reasons behind it was because Enrile requested another hearing so he could present new evidence.

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Linda Refuerzo Mendez was one of the people angry at Enrile’s return to the Senate. “I thought Mr Enrile was very “sick” that’s why he was out from the jail and supposedly resting at home,” she commented on Rappler’s video of Enrile during the hearing. 

Leoncita Dionson issued a stronger condemnation of Enrile’s actions. “ENRILE has not changed at all, the same cunning guy, may you have the grace of shame, still wants publicity and grandstanding!” 

Justice?

The perceived grandstanding is what senators hoped to avoid with the new hearing. (READ: Poe on Mamasapano probe: Someone lied)

Several of the people involved are running in the 2016 national elections.

Poe and Roxas are presidential candidates, while Senators Franklin Drilon, Teofisto “TG” Guingona III, and former Director of the Philippine National Police’s Special Action Forces Getulio Napeñas are gunning for senate seats.

This only furthered netizens’ speculations into the real purpose of the investigation.

Noel Macaya wrote: “old story, nothing new in what they are saying. this is obviously in aid of election.”

Grandstanding, for many netizens was delaying progress, and thus, justice. (READ: No closure without justice for Mamasapano victims)

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While others were debating whether there hidden motives, Ianne Benson chose to comment : “What the people want is the truth (which is obvious by the way) and justice for the fallen 44. There is no amount of money that can mend their mourning hearts but to see justice served.” – Rappler.com