Senators revive bid for protection of magistrates after Manila City judge slay

MANILA, Philippines — At least two senators have renewed their calls for the urgent passage of a measure seeking to establish a security service unit that will protect judges and justices.

This comes after a Manila City court judge was shot dead at the chamber on Wednesday afternoon.

Senator Richard Gordon, chair of the Senate justice committee, said the killing of Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 45 Judge Maria Teresa Abadilla “shows that even our judges are not safe from criminals.”

“[T}hat’s why we need to urgently pass our bill creating the Philippine Marshal Service, which will act as an independent arm that will ensure the security of the judiciary,” he said in a statement.

READ: Senate panel OKs bill on PH marshals service for judges

“We also call on the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to report on their recommendation so that we can work on the passage of the bill,” he added.

Senator Panfilo Lacson made a similar bid via Twitter, saying: “Let’s pass the Judicial Marshall bill ASAP.”

According to police, Abadilla was killed by her branch clerk identified as Atty. Amador Rebato Jr.

Rebato then shot himself dead after shooting Abadilla, police said.

Gordon condemned the “remorseless murder” of the Manila City judge. He said it should “never be acceptable that we allow our citizens to be killed, especially our judges.”

“This is truly unforgivable,” he said.

“Our judges have a vital impact on people’s lives as they protect our liberties and rights. They help the victims of various violence and discriminations achieve justice,” he added.

KGA