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Manila: There is a strong possibility that Senators-elect Gregorio Honasan and Antonio Trillanes IV would be granted political amnesty in a spirit of reconciliation, good governance and national progress, Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said.
"President Gloria Arroyo's policy since day one of her administration has been to push for the peace process. And peace process means making peace with those fighting the government," Ermita said during a press briefing yesterday.
Honasan, who had figured in past coup attempts during the administration of Corazon Aquino in the late 1980s, had also allegedly played a part in the failed "Oakwood" mutiny at the Makati central business district in July 2003 which was led by Trillanes.
The failed Oakwood mutiny led to the stockade detention of Trillanes and several junior military officers who took part in the rebellion but their direct involvement in the rebellion also boosted the popularity of Trillanes and Honasan which led to their victory in the polls last May 14. Noting that in previous years the national leadership extended its hand of peace to anti-government personalities, Ermita said he does not see any reason why the same gesture cannot be extended to political leaders.
"So there is a high probability, that indeed, in the spirit of reconciliation and in the spirit of making things move forward, in the name of good governance for the sake of our people, there is nothing that would prevent the President, and I think the President may just do that [grant amnesty to Honasan and Trillanes]," Ermita said.
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