Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 28) — Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos said criminal cases should be filed against the driver who drew a gun on an unarmed cyclist, adding “there must be consequences” for such kind of actions.
“For the sake of a peaceful and orderly society, we cannot allow a culture of impunity,” Abalos said on Monday. “We cannot allow bullies to just go around intimidating people with deadly weapons. There must be consequences here.”
On Aug. 8, a motorist identified as Wilfredo Gonzales hit a cyclist on the head and drew a handgun after the biker bumped his vehicle. This was seen in a now-deleted video that went viral on Sunday.
Gonzales said he had already settled the issue with the biker before the video went viral. He, however, did not disclose details of their agreement.
“Even if the victim won’t testify, criminal cases can still be filed if another witness comes forward,” said Abalos who is a lawyer.
“For example, the person that took the viral video, or other bystanders during the incident, can establish that they were at the scene, and identify the perpetrator and the acts that he committed,” he added. “At the very least, a case for alarm and scandal could be filed.”
The Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed that based on their records, Gonzales is a former police officer. He was dismissed in 2018.
His gun permits were revoked on Sunday, and authorities confiscated three more guns in his possession on Monday.
Abalos also said the National Police Commission (Napolcom) will monitor the PNP’s response to the incident.
“In case of any inaction by the PNP’s handling officers, the PNP’s Internal Affairs Service would investigate,” Abalos said.
“The Napolcom may step in, if warranted,” he added. “In any case, rest assured that the Napolcom will do its utmost to pursue the cause of justice.”
Sen. JV Ejercito also said the driver should still face a complaint for grave threats, as “drawing a gun against a helpless, unarmed cyclist” is “unforgivable.”
“As a cyclist, I will not let this pass. Hindi dapat makalusot ang mga sigang pulis! Hindi na ‘yan uso! Dapat makasuhan din ito sa korte at ipakulong nang hindi na ito tularan! Hindi ka dapat palagpasin!” he said.
[Translation: Arrogant police officers should not get away with their actions! He should be charged in the court and be imprisoned so that he would not be emulated!]
Sen. Bong Go also urged gun owners to be responsible.
“Dapat sila maging magandang ehemplo. Nagserbisyo sila bilang pulis. Tinuruan naman sila paano maging responsible gun holder,” he said. “’Wag niyong gamitin sa mga inosente, gamitin niyo sa mga kriminal.”
[Translation: They should be good examples. They served as police officers. They were taught how to be responsible gun holders. Don’t use firearms against the innocent, but against criminals.]
