Belmonte appeals to cyclist in road rage viral video to file charges

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte on Thursday called on the cyclist involved in a viral traffic altercation to press charges against the dismissed police officer who threatened him with a gun.

Belmonte made the appeal as the cyclist said he had already settled the issue with former cop, Wilfredo Gonzales, and is no longer keen on filing charges.

"While we understand and respect the decision of the cyclist, the failure to prosecute the perpetrator breeds a culture of impunity. We are sending the wrong signal that we are tolerating violence, and in the meantime,  the cycling community will continue to be prone to threats and intimidation," the mayor said.

“By setting an example, the successful prosecution of this case would certainly help achieve our goal of creating a haven for safe cycling. However, the sad truth is that in the absence of a complainant, a strong criminal case cannot prosper,” she added.

On Monday, Belmonte ordered the QC People's Law Enforcement Board (PLEB) to investigate the incident that occurred along Welcome Rotonda on August 8.

PLEB Executive Officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan said the probe is meant to determine whether protocols were followed during the case settlement and whether administrative lapses were committed by the police.

Calinisan also said they will look into any complaints filed against the Galas Police Station and all involved personnel may be held accountable for grave misconduct and oppression, which are punishable by dismissal from the service or suspension.

In a viral video, Gonzales was seen cursing and pulling out his firearm against a cyclist who hit his car with his bicycle.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday confirmed that Gonzales, a coterminous employee at the Office of Associate Justice Ricardo Rosario, was fired after the incident.

Meanwhile, the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) filed alarm and scandal complaints against him on Tuesday.

Gonzales surrendered to authorities on Sunday after the video went viral. He said he and the cyclist had settled the matter and had come to an agreement, though the cyclist’s lawyer said the deal was forced.

The Philippine National Police has revoked his gun license, firearm registration, and permit to carry. The three guns under his name have also been confiscated.

The Land Transportation Office also issued a 90-day preventive suspension on his driver’s license while the investigation against him is on going.

QCPD chief Police Brigadier General Nicolas Torre III has also resigned from his post after expressing remorse for allowing the press conference to happen. — BM, GMA Integrated News