'VIP treatment' for senator criticised

Manila: Two members of the House of Representatives have assailed the "VIP treatment" being extended to a newly-elected senator, who is facing rebellion charges in connection with the failed July 28, 2003 mutiny.

Representatives Mauricio Domogan and Douglas Cagas of Baguio City and Davao del Sur, respectively, said Senator Antonio Trillanes IV's victory in the recent elections does not entitle him to privileges like temporary liberty.

The upper chamber lawmakers said giving Trillanes special treatment will set a bad precedent to other lawmakers whether they be in the Senate or the House of Representatives.

"Giving Trillanes special treatment will set a bad precedent for other notorious personality to seek similar treatment. They can just get public sympathy by fighting the government and running for public office as a way of evading legal troubles," said Domogan.

The government, the courts and the military are currently in a bind in the aftermath of Trillanes's unexpected victory in the May 14 polls.