Netizens, various groups, and some politicians have been outraged after a video of a policeman who shot and killed his mother and son neighbors in Paniqui, Tarlac on Sunday was reported on social media just because of a fireworks dispute.
The victims were identified as Sonya Gregorio, 52, and her son Frank Anthony, 25.
In the video, we see the suspect, Police Senior Master Sgt. Jonel Nuezca, 46, shot the mother and son in the head, in front of her own daughter and relatives of the victims.
The root of the dispute is allegedly the noise created by the boga, a type of improvised explosive device. The fight between the two camps regarding the right of way also escalated.
At around midnight on Sunday, the video of Nuezca’s murder of mother and son began to spread on social media, which went viral and was condemned by netizens.
Statements of condemnation and hatred for police violence began on Monday morning in the video.
Senators condemn killing of the mother and son
“It’s time to remove this trick mirror that makes these police think they are all-powerful and untouchable. Nasa ilalim din sila ng batas. These rogues act like they are judge, jury, and executioner. They are not. Binabastos nila ang batas,” said Sen. Risa Hontiveros.
“If what’s on video tells the whole story, I enjoin the PNP leadership to show no mercy. They should spare no effort to make sure that he rots in jail. He’s the last policeman that they need in the force,” said Sen. Panfilo Lacson.
“I am disturbed that altercations like that in the subject incident could suddenly lead to deaths of persons. As soon as the local police has filed the appropriate charges, the prosecutor’s office will conduct a preliminary investigation to determine probable cause. The DOJ (Department of Justice) will closely monitor developments in this case and ensure that justice is done,” said Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra.
“Ito ay isang blood murder. Kitang-kita sa video, hindi lumalaban ‘yong biktima. Hindi naman armado ang mag-ina. Talagang murder ito… We don’t need this kind of policeman. Napakasimpleng bagay lang ‘yan para gamitan mo ng armas… Walang justification para barilin mo in cold blood… Talgang kailangan bigyan natin ng hustisya [ang mga biktima],” said Interior Secretary Eduardo Año.