ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE (Mindanao Examiner / Dec. 16, 2007) – Supporters of a freed former Philippine lawmaker were eager to see him return to his hometown in the southern province of Zamboanga del Norte where they prepare a huge party to welcome the politician.
Former Rep. Romeo Jalosjos, convicted to serve two life terms for raping an 11-year girl, was granted executive clemency by President Gloria Arroyo after serving 13 years in prison.
Jalosjos walked out from the national penitentiary in Manila before dawn Sunday and even attended a mass with family members.
“We are really excited to see him back. We are preparing a big party for him and it’s like one big family reunion as friends and supporters await his return,” one of the politician’s supporters, Saturnino Santos, said.
Friends and relatives were said to be preparing for Jalosjos’ return to Dapitan City in the province where they put up streamers welcoming his return.
But it was unclear when Jalosjos would return, but this early many say he might run for Congress again in the 2010 national elections.
Human rights advocates and women’s groups have criticized Arroyo for commuting Jalosjos’ double-life sentence, saying, the politician should have not been freed from jail. (Mindanao Examiner)
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