CHR calls for ‘honest, transparent’ probe of QC murder suspect’s death

MANILA, Philippines — An honest and transparent investigation will uncover the truth behind the death of a suspect who was shot dead inside a police car in Quezon City, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said Friday.

“The Commission believes that the truth behind what happened inside that police patrol is best determined through an honest and transparent investigation of the case,” CHR Spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said in a statement.

The agency is currently investigating the death of Carl Joseph Bañanola, the suspect in the killing of an octogenarian couple in Quezon City, who was killed after a gun scuffle with law enforcers on the way to the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) Headquarters.

READ: Suspect in killing of QC couple shot dead in police car

The Commission said cases of self-defense should be filed before the courts to determine the “validity of the circumstances that resulted in a person’s death.”

It lauded the Philippine National Police for proposing to file cases against police escort who were with the suspect if an irregularity is proven.

“We welcome the statement of the PNP of the possibility of filing administrative and criminal cases should there be proof of irregularity in the suspect’s death,” de Guia said.

READ: PNP to file case vs cops if there is proof of irregularity in suspect’s death

Meanwhile, the CHR said it will study the case of the senior citizens who were murdered by Bañanola.

“In service of justice, CHR will also look into the death of the said elderly couple as part of protecting the rights of vulnerable and marginalized Filipinos,” de Guia said.

READ: Cops nab ex-delivery man tagged in octogenarian couple slay

On May 26, Nicolas Austria and his wife Leonora were found dead with stab wounds inside their house at 8 Diego Silang St., TS Cruz Subdivision, Barangay San Agustin, Novaliches. (Editor: Eden Estopace)