Philippines outraged by Suu Kyi's transfer to prison

May 17, 2009, 9:54 GMT

Manila - The Philippine government on Sunday expressed outrage over the transfer of Myanmar opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi to prison following the filing of what it called 'trumped up' charges against her.

In a statement, Foreign Secretary Alberto Romulo said the recent developments in Myanmar, formerly called Burma, would hamper long-delayed efforts to democratize the military-ruled nation.

'The Philippine government is deeply troubled and outraged over the filing of trumped up charges against Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and her transfer to Insein prison, particularly where concerns have been raised regarding her health condition,' he said.

'These recent incidents will surely impede the process of national reconciliation and the roadmap to democracy in Myanmar,' he added.

Suu Kyi was taken to Insein Prison on Thursday and charged with abetting the unlawful visit by John William Yettaw, a 53-year-old Vietnam War veteran who swam to Suu Kyi's compound on May 3.

Romulo again called for Suu Kyi's release.

'We urge the government of Myanmar to resolve the matter speedily, and to release Aung San Suu Kyi immediately and unconditionally,' he said. 'The Myanmar government need not be sidetracked by the recent trumped up charges.'

'It is high time for the Myanmar government to carry out its own roadmap for democracy,' he added. 'Fulfilling these commitments is long overdue.'

The Philippines and Myanmar are both members of the Association of South-East Asian Nations, which has often been criticized for failing to push the military junta into implementing democratic reforms.