De Lima mourns passing of Filipino lawyer gunned down in Philadelphia

By Gabriela Baron

Senator Leila de Lima mourned on Monday, June 20, the passing of Filipino lawyer John Albert “Jal” Laylo who was gunned down Sunday, June 19, in Philadelphia.

Laylo, 35, was shot in the head by an unidentified suspect while riding an Uber car on the way to the airport.

He was immediately rushed to a hospital but died hours after.

De Lima remembered Laylo as “a man of high energy and vibrant spirit.” Laylo was part of the senator’s legislative team for two years before he left her office to pursue his Masters.

“No words can ease the pain that you are feeling right now but I pray that Jal’s beautiful memories will give you comfort in his difficult time,” De Lima said.

“Panalangin ko po ang inyong katatagan at kapanatagan ng isipan,” she added.

Human rights lawyer Chel Diokno also condoled with the family of Laylo. Laylo was among Diokno’s law students at De La Salle University.

“Truly saddened to hear the news about the passing of Atty. Jal. My deepest condolences to his famoly and loved ones. I pray that they may find comfort during this time of grief,” Diokno said.

“I also hope that justice will be served to whoever is behind this gruesome killing.”

Meanwhile, Consul General of the Philippines in New York Elmer Cato assured that the Philadelphia Police will “do everything to bring the perpetrator to justice.” – ag

READ MORE: Filipino lawyer dies after fatal gun attack

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