The Region - News from April 28, 1987

Despite claims that they might influence Philippine elections, U.S. District Judge Mariana R. Pfaelzer in Los Angeles ordered release of videotapes in which deposed President Ferdinand Marcos and his wife repeatedly invoked the Fifth Amendment in response to questions about billions of dollars allegedly misappropriated from the Philippine treasury. Pfaelzer said her order will also permit dissemination of photographs, videotapes and documents concerning an estimated $7 million in jewelry and other property that was seized by U.S. Customs Service agents when Marcos fled the Philippines last year. Marcos’ attorney, John J. Bartko, called public disclosure a blatant attempt by the Philippine government to influence the May 11 congressional elections. The judge said it is clear, however, that “there will never be” a better time to release the material.