CHR to probe shooting incident involving 3 soldiers in Taguig

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said Tuesday it would look into the Christmas Day shooting incident involving three “drunk” military men in Taguig City.

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said three Philippine Army officers were drinking liquor in a village in Taguig at around 3 a.m. Saturday when the six victims, including three children, reportedly threw stones at them.

The military men became angry and began shooting at the victims using an M16 rifle, according to the police.

CHR spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia appealed to the officers and civilian gun owners to remain calm and display maximum tolerance in this kind of situation.

“CHR condemns this indiscriminate firing incident and appeals to officers of law, and civilian gun owners to maintain calm and extend maximum tolerance when faced with situations such as these,” De Guia said.

“The use of force should always be the last resort in repelling aggression,” she added.

She also said a motu proprio investigation would be conducted by the CHR. 

The NCRPO said the victims were brought to the hospital for treatment, while the suspects were turned over to Taguig City Police Office for investigation and filing of complaints.

"The Philippine Army is collaborating with the PNP on their investigation of the incident and will cooperate in any legal actions that may be taken against the suspects," the Army said. — VBL, GMA News