IBP condemns killing of Pangasinan, Rizal lawyers

MANILA, Philippines — The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has condemned the killing of two lawyers in Dagupan, Pangasinan and Rodriguez, Rizal on Friday.   

“The Integrated Bar of the Philippines is saddened... and condemns the murder of... Val Crisostomo of IBP Pangasinan chapter and... Adilberto Golla Jr. of IBP Manila... Nakikiramay po kami sa kanilang mga pamilya at mahal sa buhay,” Domingo Cayosa, IBP executive vice president, said yesterday. 

Cayosa assured authorities that the IBP would help in unmasking individuals or groups behind the killings.  

“IBP will cooperate with authorities to determine and apprehend the killers and make them accountable,” he said.   

“These reprehensible incidents are symptoms of weaknesses in our justice system,” Cayosa added. 

Teodora Cerdan, IBP-Pangasinan chapter president, called for a ”swift and effective investigation” of the murder of Crisostomo.

Crisostomo, legal counsel of the Peryahan ng Bayan in Pangasinan, had just attended a court hearing when he was shot  in front of the justice hall in Barangay Bonuan Guest. 

Motorcycle-riding men fired at Golla as he was leaving his house on his way to work in Barangay San Isidro, Rodriguez.

– Eva Visperas