CHR conducting probe into killing of Batangas lawyer

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Saturday said it has started an independent investigation into the killing of Batangas lawyer Reginald Michael Manito.

Manito, who was running for a seat in the city council, was shot dead in Sto. Tomas City, Batangas by still unknown assailants inside his office on Thursday. 

"The Commission on Human Rights (CHR), through its Region IV-A office, is now conducting an independent probe on the killing of lawyer Atty. Reginald Michael Manito who is also vying for a councilor seat in Sto. Tomas City, Batangas," CHR spokesperson Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia said in a statement. 

"CHR strongly denounces this latest killing of another member of the legal profession. There have been numerous attacks against lawyers in recent years, which contribute to a hostile and fearful environment for those working to pursue justice. Further violence can be deterred by exacting justice on each case that violates the utmost right to life. We call on the local authorities in Batangas to exert all efforts to guarantee accountability," de Guia said.

The CHR also urged the government "to ensure greater protection of lawyers and all agents of law to enable them to do their duty without fear of retaliation."

It also called for the implementation of "tighter security measures" during the campaign period for Eleksyon 2022.

Authorities are still investigating the shooting incident to identify the suspects.

Lolita Manito, mother of the victim, however said the shooting incident may be connected to her son's work as lawyer. —KG, GMA News