Victims' kin fear payback from those acquitted in Maguindanao massacre

Despite the conviction of 28 suspects in the Maguindanao massacre, victims' families feared possible retribution from the 56 other accused who were acquitted in the case.

"Natatakot po kami, 'yung mga nakalabas po, paano po 'yung pamilya, baka balikan po nila," Jhanchiene Maravilla said.

"Mahirap tanggapin na mayroong mga hindi na-convict so itutuloy namin ang laban," Xhandi Morales added.

The Philippine National Police, however, emphasized that they were ready to provide security for the massacre victims' families.

"Kung sa tingin nila ay mayroon silang threat sa kanilang buhay, pwede naman silang sumangguni directly sa mga respective police stations nila," said Police Lieutenant Colonel Lino Capillan, spokesperson of the Soccsksargen Police.

The security situation in Maguindanao has been generally peaceful during the promulgation of the case on Thursday.

Several members of the Ampatuan clan and others accused were found guilty for the massacre and each were sentenced to 57 counts of reclusion perpetua without parole. — Dona Magsino/DVM, GMA News