Cavite student who heckled Arroyo unfazed by probe

The student who stood up to shout slogans against President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo as the Chief Executive spoke at the Cavite State University’s graduation rites remains defiant, despite a probe ordered by the justice department. "Hindi ito pambabastos, isa itong political statement. Ang pamahalaan ang matagal nang nambabastos sa mga Pilipino," Pangilinan said in an interview with GMA’s DZBB radio. (It was not meant to disrespect (Mrs. Arroyo), it was a political statement. It is the government that has long disrespected Filipinos.) "I’m willing to do it over and over again," Pangilinan said. Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez the previous day ordered the National Bureau of Investigation to conduct a probe of the incident because "a crime was committed." According to the justice chief, there was a possible violation of Article 153 of the Revised Penal Code, which punishes those who "disturb a peaceful gathering" and "especially when the President is present." Pangilinan, a 23-year-old mass communication graduate, said Gonzales’ time was better spent investigating other more urgent pending cases, such as the controversial "Hello Garci" wiretapped conversations. Aside from Pangilinan, CSU officials and security personnel will be investigated. Those found guilty of violating Article 153 of the penal code could be imprisoned for six months to two years. The CSU student admitted that the protest action was planned but university officials were not aware of it. She added that other students were also supposed to take part but backed out because of the heavy presence of presidential security personnel. She also said that a reported signature campaign for a document that apologizes to Mrs. Arroyo for the incident was not initiated by students. Pangilinan shouted anti-Charter change slogans and unveiled a placard that read "Patalsikin si Arroyo" (Oust Arroyo) at the CSU’s graduation rites last April 21. Pangilinan was later joined by several student activists in the protest action. The President's security men then accosted Pangilinan and the other protesters out of the grounds where the graduation rites were being held. Pangilinan was later allowed to go up the stage to receive her diploma from Mrs. Arroyo.-GMANews.TV