CHR probes killing of student in Davao City
Was a non-uniformed-personnel of the Police Regional Office (PRO) in Davao City authorized to carry a firearm inside a bar to have a drinking session with friends?
This was one of the queries raised by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) as it decided to conduct its own investigation into the death of a 19-year-old student, Amier P. Mangacop, who was reportedly shot several times last July 2 by suspect Marvin Rey Andrew R. Pepino, a physician and a non-uniformed PRO personnel.
Citing the report of the Davao City police based on Pepino’s statement, the CHR said that an altercation ensued between the groups of the physician and the student last July 2 at a bar at the corner of V. Mapa and J. Camus Extension Streets.
It said the police reported that Mangacop allegedly attacked Pepino who was forced to draw his gun and shoot in self-defense.
But the CHR said that Mangacop’s family belied Pepino’s account of the shooting incident.
It said the family pointed out that a cousin of Mangacop called and requested to be fetched at the bar. The student and his companions arrived in the middle of a scuffle and that they were neither drunk nor high, it also said quoting the statement issued by the family.
The CHR, in a statement issued by Executive Director Jacqueline Ann de Guia, said:
“We recognize the ongoing investigation being conducted by the San Pedro Police and the Philippine National Police Davao Region. Similarly, we note the request of the family of Mangacop for the National Bureau of Investigation to handle the case instead for fear of alleged ‘suppression and whitewash’ by the local and regional police.
“CHR's independent investigation seeks to help establish the truth amid competing narratives from both sides. One point of inquiry is as to why a non-uniformed personnel is carrying a firearm outside the residence, particularly while drinking in a bar.
“The goal is to be able to hold the perpetrator to account, achieve justice for the death of the male student, and possibly trigger a review of the guidelines on firearm use and regulation in the country.
“As our independent investigation moves, we shall hold on to the commitment of PRO Davao for ‘a thorough, fair, and unbiased investigation,’ coupled with an assurance that appropriate criminal charges will be pursued.
“We expect this commitment to be matched with fast action, including necessary cooperation with CHR's investigation, to ensure justice and accountability for assault against human life.”