After being bombarded with news of policemen “who abuse their authority over innocent civilians” and cops “who use their weapons against defenseless targets,” it comes as a breath of fresh air to hear stories of cops “who treat people with respect -- even if the same was not granted to them.”
This is exactly what the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) thought of Patrolman John Paul Gomez Sudario from Santiago City, Isabela, who displayed "maximum tolerance" even after he was repeatedly slapped and kicked by an angry lady customer who was escorted outside a mall.
In a viral video shared last Jan. 10, Sudario was seen talking calmly to a very upset woman who hit him several times. Despite the attacks, Sudario maintained his cool.
"We commend the discipline and exercise of Patrolman John Paul Gomez Sudario of maximum tolerance while dealing with an irate mallgoer in Santiago City, Isabela," said CHR spokesperson and lawyer Jacqueline Ann de Guia.
"While it is easy to lose control during confrontational circumstances, police officer Sudario was able to demonstrate respect for human rights while preserving public order," De Guia said.
She suggested that more cops should emulate Sudario, since he chose to do the right thing in a difficult situation. "CHR hopes to see similar acts that respect human rights and dignity in all aspects of law enforcement," she said.
On the other hand, the CHR told the public that respect goes both ways and civilians must also treat the police with respect if they expect to be accorded the same treatment.
"At the same time, we equally stress the importance of respecting persons in authority enforcing lawful order -- a form of mutual respect ultimately seen as a careful balance towards protecting the rights of all," De Guia stressed.