Manila: Malaca±ang has announced its intention to review the recent Supreme Court decision that upholds the murder conviction of police officers involved in the killing of teenager Kian delos Santos in 2017. The decision has reignited calls for a comprehensive investigation into the alleged extrajudicial killings associated with the previous administration's controversial war on drugs.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Presidential Communications Office Secretary Dave Gomez stated that the Palace has yet to conduct a thorough examination of the High Court's ruling. "We still need to review the Supreme Court decision," Gomez stated, highlighting the significance of the ruling in sparking discussions on forming an independent body to investigate these cases.
Gomez noted that the decision underscores the importance of considering proposals from various sectors, including the church, civil society, and some members of Congress, to establish an independent Truth Commission. This body would be tasked with conducting a more in-depth examination of the alleged extrajudicial killings.
The Supreme Court's 40-page decision, released on Monday, found police officers Arnel Oares, Jeremias Pereda, and Jerwin Cruz guilty of murder, sentencing them to up to 40 years in prison and ordering them to pay PHP275,000 in damages to the family of the slain teenager. Kian delos Santos, a Grade 11 student, was killed during an anti-drug operation in Caloocan City in 2017, a case that sparked public outrage and highlighted alleged abuses during former President Rodrigo Duterte's drug war.
The ruling is seen as a critical step towards ensuring accountability within the law enforcement and justice systems. Duterte is currently facing charges of crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court in The Hague for his actions during his time as Davao City Mayor and President.
In response to the ruling, acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. expressed his support, stating that it demonstrates the effectiveness of due process and the rule of law in the Philippines. "The wisdom of the High Tribunal will serve as our guiding light in crafting and implementing policies to prevent the repeat of the incident, to uphold accountability, and to further professionalize the police organization," Nartatez stated.
He emphasized that the ruling should serve as a warning to all police officers that they will be held accountable for any violations of their mandate and duties. Nartatez reaffirmed the PNP's dedication to upholding the law, strengthening accountability, and delivering justice to all victims of illegal actions.
