CHR probes bombing of lawyer’s car in Davao City

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Wednesday said it has started an independent investigation into the bombing of a lawyer’s car in Davao City.

In a statement, the CHR said it is denouncing all acts of harassment and violence against lawyers and others working in the judiciary.

“No case of harassment, intimidation, and violence against legal professionals must be left unresolved to ensure an enabling and safe environment for those working for justice,” it said.

“This case is another reminder of the continuing need to ensure greater protection for lawyers and all agents of the law, who are crucial to a functional justice system and in the protection of human rights,” the CHR added.

Citing the investigation of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), the CHR said lawyer Alberto Magulta’s car exploded a few minutes after he parked it at 9:30 a.m. on June 15.

According to the CHR, CCTV footage showed two men attaching an object under the car before the explosion. The CHR further said Magulta had received death threats due to “high-profile” cases he is handling.

Magulta, who already entered his office before the explosion, was unharmed.

“CHR acknowledges the immediate action of the DCPO to form a special investigation task group to investigate the incident and their efforts to tighten security in the city,” it said.

“We are hopeful that this fervent pursuit will result to swift justice to ensure accountability on this latest case of harassment against a lawyer,” it added. —Joahna Lei Casilao/KBK, GMA Integrated News