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Wednesday, September 25, 2002
'DOJ has enough proof to convict Chinese poachers'
STATE prosecutors have enough proof to pin down the 122 Chinese fishermen jailed for allegedly poaching in Philippine waters, Justice Secretary Hernando B. Perez said confidently on Tuesday.
"The arraignment on the case of poaching and illegal fishing of the Chinese fishermen who are caught off the Palawan coast will be conducted on Sept. 27," Perez told reporters Tuesday.
"If they plead guilty, then the corresponding penalty will be imposed by the court. If on the other hand, they do not plead guilty, then we shall proceed with the trial. I have instructed the chief state prosecutor to be ready with the pros. Of the case and presentation of the evidence so that the case will be terminated in the shortest possible time."
"If the trial will proceed the prosecution is ready to prove the guilt of the poachers beyond reasonable doubt. We have enough evidence to see to it that they are convicted," he added.
Perez and Chinese Ambassador Wang Chungui came to a near fist fight last week after the Chinese envoy reportedly insisted on the unilateral release of the Chinese inmates some of whom have already been under detention for more than the minimum prison term of six months provided for the offenses under Philippine laws.
Aside from the payment of fines for poaching as well as the confiscation of their vessels, equipment and catch, the DOJ is eyeing the possible imposition of new fines for violation of the country's immigration laws against the Chinese.
A secret meeting has reportedly been set between Perez and Wang today to settle their differences. SunnexLuzon
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