Sacrifice of Dante Jimenez

THE Volunteers against Crime and Corruption (VACC) is preparing a class suit against ABS-CBN following the PhilSports Arena stampede that killed 71 people.

“There are victims who tell the media that they appreciate the visits and assistance from event organizers but after burying their loved ones, they turn to us for legal assistance,” VACC president Martin Dino said during a press conference yesterday in Malate, Manila.

He said some 100 victims have expressed willingness to give their affidavits for a possible class suit against event organizers of the Wowowee game show.

“While [gathering affidavits]

we’re also waiting for the results of an investigation by the justice and the interior and local government departments before filing the case,” Dino said.

Among the pool of lawyers that will represent the victims are Leonard de Vera, Pete Principe and Bong Tansinsin.

Recently, VACC set up a help desk at PhilSports Arena not only to extend medical assistance and provide psychological help but also investigate and gather evidence that would boost the organization’s plan of filing a class suit.

Dino, however, said they are carefully screening the victims who will join the class suit.

“We’re being cautious because there might be some individuals who would only want to make money out of the incident,” he said.

VACC was also the lead organization in the filing of a class suit against the owner of Ozone Disco after the tragedy claimed more than 150 lives.

Earlier ABS-CBN chairman and chief executive officer Eugenio Lopez III held himself accountable for the tragedy.

“I want to say that I am responsible and I will hold myself accountable should our justice system so determine in the future. There will be no whitewash, and we will continue to work with the government and all its agencies,” Lopez said in a televised statement.