We share the anguish that many feel about a mother and her son, who were shot dead by a police officer in Paniqui, Tarlac, over the weekend. The public outrage over the incident is totally understandable.
We sympathize with the family of Mrs. Sonya Gregorio and her son, Frank Anthony, especially their young and innocent relatives who, unfortunately, bore witness to the horrific killings. It is our fervent hope that the circumstances surrounding their deaths are investigated thoroughly and that justice is ultimately served. The culprit, Police Officer Jonel Nuezca, must not go unpunished and that his effective prosecution must be ensured.
The incident also highlights the need for the leadership of the Philippine National Police to remind its ranks on the proper and responsible use of their weapons and that they should, as much as possible, apply non-violent means at all times. Police officers must be reminded that force and firearms may only be used if other means remain ineffective or without any promise of achieving the intended result.