Don't shoot the messenger

Dapat magalit tayo sa mga corrupt na heneral, hindi sa media na messenger lamang.

Is the importance of a free and independent press not in the military curriculum?

House minority leader Francis Escudero (NPC, Sorsogon) yesterday took a dig at Gen. (ret.) Narciso Abaya who said Friday media was resorting to rumor-mongering, sensationalism, and trial by publicity.

Abaya made the remarks in his farewell speech as he handed the reins of the AFP to Lt. Gen. Efren Abu, the former Army chief.

"Coup attempts, like corruption scandal, have a way of catching fire, destroying reputations and destabilizing institutions, especially with the sensationalism that has come to characterize the press and media," he said.

Escudero said: "It is sad that despite being in the military for 38 years, he (Abaya) still does not understand and accept the imperatives of a democracy which among others, demands a strong, independent and free press."

Stop the coverup, Gen. Abaya!