CHR probes teen’s slay in Pampanga

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has initiated an investigation into the death of a 19-year-old man, who was allegedly shot by a policeman for not wearing a face mask in Bacolor, Pampanga.

CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said probers would coordinate with local authorities to ensure justice for Alberto Vasquez.

Cpl. Alvin Pastorin, intelligence officer of the Pampanga police, has been charged with homicide.

“Pending the results of the investigation, we continue to urge our law enforcers to always exercise maximum tolerance and patience in dealing with situations of peace and order,” De Guia said.

”Use of excessive force, which is unwarranted and not proportional to the violation committed, is prohibited by the PNP (Philippine National Police) operational procedures and must be dealt with accordingly,” she added.

De Guia welcomed the statement of PNP chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos reiterating the police’s policy against indiscriminate firing of guns.

The mother of the victim disputed Pastorin’s claim that he only acted in self-defense because her son and his companions attacked the policeman.

“Imposible naman pong kinuyog siya at pinagbabato. Bakit wala siyang pasa?” Lou Vasquez said in an interview over Teleradyo.

She accused Pastorin of making up stories.

Lou is seeking assistance, saying they still have to get the services of a lawyer to help them with the case against the policeman. – Emmanuel Tupas