The charred remains of former Batangas 2nd District Rep. Edgar Mendoza, his bodyguard Ruel Ruiz and his driver Nicanor Mendoza left inside a vehicle on the side of the road is a deplorable display of barbarity and cruelty.

The Commission on Human Rights condemns this horrible act, along with the number of vigilante killings against present and former government officials.

Vigilante killings, which arbitrarily deprives individuals of the right to life, contributes to the growing culture of impunity. The Commission in response to this act, has already endorsed to CHR Region IV-A the case for investigation.

The State bears the ultimate responsibility and duty to protect its citizens, hence the Commission calls upon law enforcement agencies to act quickly to bring justice to the victims and their family.