The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has condemned the planting of evidence by policemen during a supposed illegal drugs buy-bust operation that resulted in the death of an alleged suspect.
During an executive session of the Committee on Public Order of the House of Representatives last July 16, Master Seargeamt Juan Macaraig and Seargeamt Michie Perez confessed to planting evidence against Bryan Laresma, 33, at the boundary of San Juan, Batangas and Tiaong, Quezon on May 28. The buy-bust operation led to the death of Laresma.
Initially, Perez said that she got more than four grams of shabu from Laresma. She added that she shot Laresma because the latter fired his gun first.
But after being questioned by Committee Chairperson Rep. Dan Fernandez, Perez admitted that the money, gun, and crystal meth (shabu) were planted on Laresma’s body.
"The CHR condemns this act as it not only resulted in an unlawful killing but also violated the fundamental right to life of the victim," said CHR Chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc.
"It is imperative that the police officers implicated in this grievous act face the full extent of the law for their actions," Palpal-latoc said.
In a statement, the CHR said that the killing of Laresma is a clear violation of Articles 10 and 11 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which state that everyone is entitled, in full equality, to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal to determine their rights, obligations, and any criminal charges against them, and the right to be considered innocent until proven guilty, with all necessary guarantees for their defense.
"The CHR underscores the need for justice not only to serve as reparation for the victim and his family but also to reaffirm the state's commitment to upholding human rights and the rule of law," the CHR said.
In noted the motu proprio (on one's own initiative) investigation by the Provincial Internal Affairs Service of the Batangas Police Provincial Office and its assurance that any officers found to have violated protocols will face appropriate charges.
"Ensuring that those responsible are held accountable is crucial in restoring public trust in law enforcement and in preventing future violations," the CHR stressed.
It reminded the state and the authorities of their obligation to ensure that measures taken to combat drugs, or any other criminalities, are conducted within the bounds of the law and with respect for human rights.