The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) welcomed the filing of criminal charges against seven law enforcers in connection with the reported “misencounter” in Quezon City during an illegal drugs operation in 2021.
"CHR believes that this indictment is a step forward in counteracting similar happenstance from taking place again and further proof that law enforcement agencies are inclined to prevent human rights violations," said CHR Executive Director Jacqueline Ann de Guia in a statement.
Charged criminally in court were three Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) agents and four members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the Feb. 24, 2021 “misencounter” in Quezon City where three law enforcers and a civilian informant died.
Those charged with homicide were identified by the Department of Justice (DOJ) as PDEA agents Khee Maricar Rodas, Jeffrey Baguidudol, and Jelou Satiniaman, while those indicted for direct assault were P/Maj. Sandie Caparroso, P/Lt. Honey Besas, P/SMsg. Melvin Merida, and P/Cpl. Paul Christian Gandeza.
The charges arose from the Feb. 24, 2021 firefight between PDEA agents and policemen who were conducting separate anti-illegal drugs buy-bust operations along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City.
De Guia said the CHR is hopeful that the charges will translate to disciplining law enforcers as the commission will remain "vigilant" of the legal proceedings to help guarantee the right to a fair trial of the involved police officers and PDEA agents.
She also said: "As fellow duty bearers, we hope for the continued efforts and reforms of state agents to respect, protect, and fulfill human rights. Our leaders may change, but our obligations under the Constitution remain the same: To serve and protect the Filipino people."