Press Release
November 9, 2017

Sen. Joel Villanueva's statement on case vs ex-President Aquino

I think it is legally inappropriate to file a usurpation of authority case against then President Benigno Aquino III for his role in the Mamasapano incident. "Usurpation of authority" is defined as the "performance of an act by a person who knowingly and falsely represents himself to be a government official without being lawfully entitled to do so." As the Commander-in-Chief of the police and armed forces, he had the power and authority to call the police operation, even if ill-fated.

The former president had to act on a matter of urgent necessity. He deliberately did what should be expected of a leader, and he merely answered the call to act in the best interest of the country and our people.

We are positive that the former president will be able to answer to the charges and defend his name and honor.

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