Palace says no need to show proof on names in ouster matrix

MALACAÑANG ON Wednesday said it is “totally unnecessary” to show proof on the alleged involvement of journalists, lawyers, and media groups named in the Duterte ouster matrix it previously released. “Those named in the matrix demand proof of their participation in the ouster plot. Such is totally unnecessary,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador S. Panelo said in a statement. “The matrix shows that there is an ouster plot. It is just a plot, a plan, an idea. The same is not actionable in court it being just a conspiracy,” he added. Mr. Panelo cited Article 8 of the Revised Penal Code, which provides: “Conspiracy and proposal to commit felony are punishable only in the cases in which the law specially provides a penalty therefor.” He cited that punishable conspiracies are those relating to committing treason, rebellion, insurrection, coup d’etat and sedition. “Only when all the elements of any of these crimes have been committed will we file a case against the conspirators,” he explained. — Arjay L. Balinbin