Senatorial candidate Atty. Adel Tamano has criticized the army in relation to the controversial arrest of 43 health workers on February 6, 2010 from a health training seminar in Morong, Rizal, branding the army’s statements as “plainly stupid.”

“The military spokesman’s statement on a TV interview that the health workers were helping communist rebels or are rebels as well is not only plainly stupid but also misunderstands the work of health workers,” Tamano emphasized.

Tamano’s reaction comes after the non-appearance of the group now dubbed as the “Morong 43.” Despite the Supreme Court’s order on Thursday ordering the military and police to present to the Court of Appeals the “Morong 43,” not one detainee showed up Friday. The group is currently detained at Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal.

Col. Aurelio Baladad, Commanding officer of the 202^nd Infantry Brigade, appeared before the court instead and explained that the AFP did not have enough resources to immediately transport 43 “high risk” detainees.

“That reasoning is preposterous. Are you saying that the AFP, the very same group that’s supposed to defend the country, is that incapable of tapping resources?,” Tamano slammed.

“Some of the people illegally arrested and detained by the military are Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) graduates who were merely providing health services and training to the poor. As president of PLM, we have always oriented our graduates towards public service and a preferential option for the poor. Because of this, our health workers are arrested and detained in violation of law,” Tamano said.

“There is no politics in health work – you provide health service to all in need, no matter what political orientation. Even convicted criminals get health services. The health workers should be released immediately,” Tamano added.