Couple hit over 'Libingan' pictorial

source: mb.com.ph

MANILA, Philippines — It all started with a cool and artistic pre-nuptial pictorial at the Libingan ng Mga Bayani in Taguig City.

In the end, however, some netizens were left in a state of shock and outrage by some of the “wacky” photos uploaded in a couple’s Facebook account, prompting the military to rethink the rules and regulations being implemented in the cemetery for fallen heroes.


Both soldiers and the religiously-sensitive netizens have all the reasons to be furious. Some of the pictures appear to desecrate the Libingan ng Mga Bayani like the would-be groom grinning while hugging a cross placed on top of the tomb and the would-be bride sitting on top of the beam of one of the crosses and appeared to be enjoying bottles of wine as she holds a glass in toast.

“I feel sad, especially that respect for the dead is a traditional Filipino value... they are actually violating the sacredness of the place,” said Commodore Jose Miguel Rodriguez, spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

The couple also suffered the wrath of a number of Facebook users who are apparently disgusted by the outcome of the pictorial which were uploaded in the popular social networking site.

Rodriguez said there is nothing wrong with shooting pictures inside the Libingan ng Mga Bayani where fallen soldiers, presidents, and national artists are buried.

He explained that the area is even a popular relaxation site, a place for couples to date and for families to spend time with one another.

“But the problem is they have transgressed what is called propriety and decency to the mind of the public,” said Rodriguez.

Following the incident, Rodriguez said the Army leadership has already ordered an investigation into the incident.

“The Army has been directed to look into that, I am sure if they find it offensive and there is a criminal offense, there is a violation, they will file the proper charges,” said Rodriguez.


For now, the official said they will be conducting a review of the rules and regulations being imposed on people visiting the Libingan ng Mga Bayani.

Among them are the regulations for taking pictures inside and for those who want to hold a pictorial or photo session inside.

“We are now looking into how to improve the management of the Libingan ng Mga Bayani because definitely, we don’t want this thing to happen again,” said Rodriguez.

source: mb.com.ph