Palace sees no security “overkill” on burial of daughter of detained activist

October 19, 2020

Malacanang expressed belief on Monday that there was no "overkill" on the security implemented by authorities during the funeral of the daughter of detained activist Reina Mae Nasino.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, in a televised press briefing, said the Palace respects the security measure enforced by the commander on the ground on the burial last October 16 of three-month old River Nasino who died due to gastroenteritis complications.

"The President (Rodrigo Duterte) does not micro-manage. And in matters of securing an accused facing a non-bailable offense, the President can never substitute its judgment from that of the commander on the ground," he said.

"So, we respect whatever decision of the commander may have been on the ground. If he felt that such security arrangement was necessary, so be it," Roque added.

Roque distanced himself from a Facebook post of MMDA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Celine Pialago who said that not all who have been detained could attend the funeral of their children.

Pialago said this was why those who have been sympathizing with Nasino should study first the reason she was detained and who she really is.

Roque said that Pialago's statement was her personal opinion since it was not related to MMDA.

Some quarters, including Vice President Leni Robredo, have said that the security response by the members of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology who escorted Nasino in the burial of her daughter was "overkill." Celerina Monte/DMS