CHR to probe death of Pampanga teenager allegedly shot by cop

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) will conduct its own investigation into the death of a teenager in Pampanga who was allegedly shot by a policeman.

CHR's investigation will be on top of the one being conducted by the Philippine National Police (PNP).

The victim, Abelardo Vasquez, 19, died on November 20 after he was allegedly shot by Police Corporal Alvin Pastorin, intel officer of Pampanga Police Provincial Office, following an altercation.

"The Commission on Human Rights is launching a motu proprio investigation into the death of a teenager, who was said to have been shot by a police officer last 20 November following an altercation,"  said lawyer Jacqueline Ann de Guia, CHR spokesperson, in a statement on Friday.

De Guia also said the commission welcomes the investigation being conducted by the PNP.

"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 operational procedures and must be dealt with accordingly."

The Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials states that, "Law enforcement officials, in carrying out their duty, shall, as far as possible, apply non-violent means before resorting to the use of force and firearms."

These principles have been adopted by the United Nations Congress on the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders, the CHR said.

Pastorin, who is facing a homicide complaint, is detained at Bacolor Municipal Police Station, PNP chief Police General Dionardo Carlos earlier said.  —KBK, GMA News