MANILA -- The prime suspect in the Maguindanao massacre and 16 others pleaded not guilty Wednesday to the 57th murder charge filed against them in connection to the mass killings last year.

Andal Ampatuan Jr. and several other suspects in the massacre who included members of the Philippine National Police were arraigned Wednesday morning at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City.

The 57th murder charge filed against them pertained to the killing of one of the massacre victims, UNTV anchor Victor Nuñez.

Nuñez's wife, Catherin, attended the arraignment. In an interview, she said she is hoping the case will be solved soon.

The pre-trial of the case was set on August 6. (Sunnex)