11 Magdalo soldiers plead guilty over Oakwood mutiny

MANILA, Philippines - Eleven junior military officers belonging to the Magdalo group on Tuesday changed their not guilty plea before a general court martial in connection with the failed July 27, 2003 Oakwood mutiny. Emerging after a short meeting with Armed Forces chief Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano, the 11 officers pleaded guilty to violating Articles of War 96 or conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman. Those who changed their original plea were: Captain Segundino Orfiano Jr, and First Lieutenants Billy Pascua and Francisco Ashley Acedillo from the Air Force; Lieutenants Senior Grade James Layug, Eugene Louie Gonzales, Andy Torato, and Manuel Cabochan, Lieutenant Junior Grade Arturo Pascua, and Ensign Arman Pontejos from the Navy; and Captain Gary Alejano and Second Lieutenant Jonnel Sangalang from the Marines. Alejano and Layug are known hardcore leaders of the Magdalo group. Lawyer Ed Abaya, counsel for the defense, requested the court to consider the group's voluntary surrender on July 27, 2003 and their subsequent change of plea as mitigating circumstances. AW 96 is punishable with dishonorable discharge from the service and also carries a jail sentence. The military court, presided by Air Force Brig. Gen. Nathaniel Legaspi, said the sentence against the 11 officers will be handed out during the next hearing. The date was still to be announced as of posting time. The latest development left only six others remaining on trial in connection with the Oakwood mutiny, including resigned Navy Lt (s.g.) turned Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and fugitive Marine Capt. Nicanor Faeldon. The other officers are Army 1Lt. Warren Dagupon and Marine Second Lieutenants Alquin Canson, Junnibert Tubo and Edwin Duetao. Trillanes, Faeldon and Dagupon stand accused of violating AW 96, being the group's hardcore leaders. They are also facing coup d' etat charges before the Makati regional trial court. In addition, Trillanes and Faeldon are accused of rebellion in connection with the Nov. 29, 2007 for their alleged involvement in the standoff at the Peninsula Manila hotel in Makati City. To date, Faeldon remains at large. On the other hand, Canson, Tubo, and Duetao are charged for violation of AW 96, 63 (disrespect to the President), 64 (disrespect towards superior officer), 67 (mutiny), ad 97 (conduct prejudicial to good order and military discipline). - GMANews.TV