MARINE CASE UPDATE 06/05/06

UNCLAS MANILA 002334 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL MARR KCRM CASC RP SUBJECT: MARINE CASE UPDATE 06/05/06 REF: MANILA 2228 AND PREVIOUS ¶1. (U) On June 2, the trial of four Marines charged with raping a Filipina began in Makati City, Manila. Two Diplomatic Security (DS) Special Agents and a DS investigator from Mission's Regional Security Office accompanied the Marines, who remain quartered on Embassy grounds, to the trial. Mission representatives from JUSMAG, the Defense Attache's Office (DAO),Public Affairs (PAS),and American Citizen Services (ACS),as well as representatives from the Third Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF),were also present in court during the session. RSO personnel worked closely with the Mayor of Makati City, Philippine National Police, and local court staff to assure the safety of the Marines and the security of the courtroom and surrounding area. Members of the press were in the courtroom, but camera crews were barred. ¶2. (U) Judge Pozon plans to convene trial sessions every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday throughout the month of June. Mission personnel from RSO and ACS will continue accompany the Marines to every session; other Mission personnel will join as appropriate, along with III MEF representatives. Kenney