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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Senators urge release of activist, newborn baby

Senators urge release of activist, newborn baby

Published Dec 4, 2020 02:50 pm

Members of the Senate minority bloc on Friday urged law enforcement authorities to give some consideration to Amanda Echanis, daughter of slain Anakpawis Chairman Randall Echanis, and her newborn baby and release them from jail.

Senator Franklin Drilon (Senate of the Philippines / MANILA BULLETIN)

The call was made by Senate Minority Leader Franklin M Drilon and Senators Risa Hontiveros and Francis ‘’Kiko’’ N. Pangilinan, president of the Liberal Party (LP) who said authorities should prevent a repeat of the heartbreaking death of activist Reina Nacino’s three-month old baby River.

“We call on the authorities to release Amanda Echanis and her baby for humanitarian reasons ASAP,” the group said in a statement.

“Jail is not a place for a mother and her one-month-old boy she is nursing. Considering the vulnerabilities of mother and son, releasing them is in their best interest as per the First 1,000 Days Law or Republic Act No. 11148.

But while in detention, the minority senators said state forces must ensure they are treated humanely and accorded all their rights.

“We have just witnessed the heartbreaking death of Baby River Nacino after being separated from her mother, who was still nursing her. We hope our authorities have learned a thing or two about compassion and humanity from that incident, so as not to have a repeat of an avoidable tragedy,” they said.
 
The Senate minority bloc, likewise, called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Amanda’s arrest. Echanis was arrested early Wednesday morning by the Cagayan police for alleged illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
 
“We also urge a speedy and truthful investigation and handling of the case of Amanda, accused of keeping firearms, just as she has just given birth,” they said.
 
“We also recall that the probe on the brutal death of her father has yet to find conclusion,” they added.
 
“Due process, justice and compassion must be accorded to all, no matter their beliefs,” the senators said.Attachments area

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