THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday released from detention 11 of the officers who had been implicated and subsequently charged before a military tribunal in connection with the attempt to overthrow the administration of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in February 2006.

The 11 officers, led by Marine Colonel Januario Caringal and Lieutenant Colonels Edmundo Malabanjot and Nestor Flordeliza, were released 23 days after they were released by the military court due to lack of evidence against them.

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Also released were Major Franciso Domingo Fernandez, Captain Ruben Guinolbay, Captain Frederick Sales, Captain Allan Aurino, 1st Lieutenant Ervin Divinagracia, 1st Lieutenant Jacon Cordero, 1st Lieutenant Sandro Sereno, and 1st Lieutenant Richiemel Caballes.

AFP public affairs office chief Romeo Brawner said the release order of the 11 officers were signed as early as October 30.

But he said they were released only Tuesday because they have to undergo some requirements like medical check-up.

Brawner said AFP chief Victor Ibrado met the officers, except for Caringal and Caballes, before they were turned over to their respective units.

The freed officers will return to full active duty status, unless they opt to retire early.

“Effective today, November 2, the 11 officers who were earlier acquitted by the general court martial will be finally released,” said Brawner.

Eight marines and army officers remain charged with mutiny before the military tribunal. They are led by former Marine commandant Renato Miranda, former Scout Ranger chief Danilo Lim and Marine Colonel Ariel Querubin.

The three reportedly planned to lead their men to a march at the Edsa Shrine, join the anti-government protest, and subsequently withdraw their support from President Arroyo. They were subsequently incarcerated and charged with mutiny. (VR/Sunnex)