MANILA, Philippines — Former President Fidel Ramos urged President Benigno Aquino III to apologize over his perceived violations of the Philippine National Police chain of command, resulting in the biggest combat loss in recent memory.
Ramos, who founded the police Special Action Force (SAF) as head of the Philippine Constabulary, said in a press conference broadcast over radio that Aquino, like his predecessor, should show humility.
"Saying 'I am sorry' humbly and sincerely would probably do 90 percent of the job," Ramos said.
"What is so difficult about that? As a previous president said, 'I am sorry.' That removed a lot of pressure on that person, although eventually things came up to cause her temporary detention in a hospital," Ramos added, referring to former president and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
Ramos also belied statements of the Department of Justice and Malacañang that Aquino does not have command responsibility in the Philippine National Police, especially in cases of botched operations like the Mamasapano mission.
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