Toll in Philippines Massacre Soars up to 52

Death toll in Philippines massacre, in which many journalists, civilians and relatives of politicians were killed three days ago, has now reached over 50 with recovery of more bodies, said police.

According to regional police commander Chief Superintendent Josefino Cataluna, police recovered six more bodies in the village of Masalav and with this toll rose to 52.

Of these six, two were journalists – Ernesto Maravilla, a reporter for a radio station based in the southern city of Koronadal and Henry Araneta, also a broadcast journalist.

Besides, lawmen also recovered three vehicles.

Philippine police spokesman Chief Superintendent Leonardo Espina said that they are still collecting proof against influential Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan and his son who is suspected of being behind the massacre.

However, Espina said that they would not call those accused for interrogation.

In the meanwhile, people belonging to Ampatuan clan pulled out some their pre-school and elementary school pupils studying in the city of Davit.