The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has condemned the killing of lawyer Maria Saniata Liwliwa Gonzales-Alzate who was gunned down by two motorcycle-riding assailants in front of her house in Bangued, Abra last Sept. 14.
Alzate was a former president of the Abra chapter of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) and commissioner of the IBP's Commission on Bar Discipline, the body that probes administrative charges against lawyers.
"CHR strongly condemns the killing of another lawyer and joins the call for law enforcement agencies to urgently pursue the perpetrators of this violence so they may be brought to justice," the CHR said in a statement.
The CHR also lamented that the killing of Alzate happened this September, which has been declared as Rule of Law Month under the 2004 Proclamation No. 713.
"May this proclamation stand as a reminder on the value of demonstrating equal protection under our laws, including ensuring that crimes and violations of rights simply do not go scot-free because even lawyers are under attack," the CHR said.
It reiterated its call for the government and the Filipino people to address impunity and take a stand against threats and attacks made against members of the legal profession, who play an important role in society in administering justice and uncovering the truth - especially for gross human rights violations.
"It is in the best interest of the government to protect lawyers so they may do their duty of ensuring justice without fear of threats and retaliation, especially for those who continue to stand up for the rights and interest of the weak, vulnerable, and marginalized members of the society," the CHR said.