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Suspect in Philippine massacre surrenders

AMPATUAN (Philippines): A scion of a powerful pro-government clan suspected in the massacre of 57 people in an election caravan in the southern Philippines turned himself in on Thursday amid mounting pressure on the President to crack down on lawlessness and warlords.

The dead from Monday’s massacre included at least 18 journalists and the wife, family and dozens of supporters of a gubernatorial candidate who wanted to challenge the rival Ampatuan clan, which has ruled Maguindanao province unopposed for years.

Andal Ampatuan Jr., a town mayor who allegedly stopped the convoy with dozens of police and pro-government militiamen, surrendered to presidential adviser Jesus Dureza in the provincial capital, military commander Lietenant-General Raymundo Ferrer said.

“The family voluntarily surrendered him and they agreed that he will be investigated,” said General Ferrer.

Prosecutors have 36 hours to decide whether to file charges.— AP

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