The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) welcomes another development in ascertaining accountability on cases of “nanlaban” (self-defense) particularly on deaths related to the campaign against illegal drugs. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed murder and planting of evidence charges against three (3) police officers from General Luna Municipal Police Station on the death of Diego Lafuente, a Spanish national in Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte.

Lafuente—who was claimed by police officers as a “high value” drug suspect—was killed on 8 January 2020 for allegedly fighting back against law enforcers during a buy-bust operation. However, the evidence submitted by the National Bureau of Investigation showed probable cause for murder and planting of evidence. Based on the Scene of the Crime Operations report and forensic results that disproved the shootout claim of police respondents, the Office of the Prosecutor General recommended the filing of murder and planting of evidence charges.

The “nanlaban” narrative has been the default invocation of state agents on deaths related to the campaign against illegal drugs. This indictment is a welcome development in seeking truth and ascertaining the veracity of police claims towards ensuring accountability. As we repeatedly said in the past, invoking self-defense as a justifying circumstance should be tried in courts and cannot be merely asserted.

CHR is hopeful for more progress in bringing similar cases to prosecution. Where police officers and state agents kill alleged criminals, greater resolve to exact truth and accountability is expected from the government. To combat impunity, it is crucial that the State consistently demonstrates sincerity in upholding the rule of law and utmost adherence to protecting the right to life and justice. ###