By Czarina Nicole Ong Ki
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) cannot believe that a member of the Philippine National Police (PNP) was attacked by unidentified gunmen while on his way to work last January 24, Friday, and has condemned this act of violence.
Commission on Human Rights (MANILA BULLETIN)
Master Sergeant Chito Napara Lagahit Jr., a Cavite native, was on board a bus on his way to his duty station in Baliguian, Zamboanga del Norte, when he was approached by unidentified individuals who then shot him.
"The PNP and its officers are duty-bound by its mandate and function to maintain peace and order - prevent and investigate crimes," said Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia, CHR Spokesperson. "Thus, the Commission calls upon the PNP and all law enforcement agencies to expedite investigation into the death of Master Sergeant Lagahit, to bring justice to the victim and his family and hold to account the perpetrators of this heinous crime."
De Guia stressed that the right to life is "inviolable and inherent" in all individuals, and it is even protected by due process of law. For anyone to lose this right is a crime against the very foundation of human rights, she said.
"The Commission extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and vows to coordinate efforts with the local law enforcement agency in the investigation into the death of Master Sergeant Lagahit," she added.