PNP submits more proof vs hit-and-run suspect

MANILA, Philippines — Police have submitted more evidence against Jose Antonio Sanvicente, the owner of a sport utility vehicle (SUV) who fled after running over a security guard in Mandaluyong City.

The additional evidence was Sanvicente’s pronouncement at a press conference at Camp Crame on Wednesday that the Philippine National Police aired live on its public service program on television and Facebook page, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said yesterday.

At the press conference, Sanvicente apologized to his victim, security guard Christian Joseph Floralde. His counsel, Danny Macalino, also extended apologies on behalf of his client’s family.

“Humingi na siya ng paumanhin pati ‘yung kanyang abugado ay nagsalita. Ito po ay isinubmit nating dagdag na ebidensya sa ating kaso (He apologized and his lawyer has also spoken. This is what we submitted as additional evidence in the case),” she said.

Fajardo did not elaborate if investigators submitted a video of the press briefing to the Mandaluyong prosecutor’s office.

The PNP came under fire over what the public perceived as preferential treatment after Sanvicente and his parents were allowed to hold the press conference at the PNP headquarters.

Fajardo said the press conference turned out well as Sanvicente apparently confessed to his wrongdoing.

“Kung meron man one silver lining na development doon sa presscon ay nagkaroon ng tacit admission on the part of the respondent,” she said.

Sanvicente is facing charges of frustrated murder and abandonment of one’s own victim under Article 275 of the Revised Penal Code.

Fajardo also downplayed pictures taken at the press briefing showing Sanvicente’s father shaking PNP officer-in-charge Lt. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr.’s hand and the elder Sanvicente’s wife touching Danao’s hand to her forehead, a traditional Filipino gesture meant to show respect.

Fajardo said Danao was just being a gentleman by accepting the gesture of Sanvicente’s parents.

“It would be unethical po siguro on the part ni Lt. Gen. Danao na huwag abutin ‘yung mga kamay nitong mga magulang,” she said.