The family of the murdered teenager Jemboy Baltazar is worried about the police visiting their house to get new statements from those who were with the victim.
According to Jemboy’s sister, Jessa, they are concerned that the previous testimonies given by the eyewitnesses will be different.
They did not comply with the requests of the police, according to their lawyer’s advice.
In a tweet, forensic doctor Raquel Fortun was surprised by the police’s visit to her office.
Police defended this is to remind Fortun that the prosecutor needs the results of the autopsy.
According to Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, the autopsy report will be helpful to know if the police’s upcoming case will increase from homicide to murder.
Meanwhile, the Baltazar family is requesting additional security on Wednesday’s day of Jemboy’s funeral.
The Navotas police assured that additional police would be assigned to Jemboy’s funeral until his family can return home.
In a press briefing, Abalos said that the number of police officers charged may increase depending on the progress of the investigation.
CHR wants PNP retraining
Meanwhile, Richard Palpal-latoc, Chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights, has suggested that a comprehensive retraining program be implemented for the entire police force.
This recommendation comes in the wake of the tragic incident in which 17-year-old Jemboy Baltazar was fatally shot by Navotas City policemen, reportedly due to a case of mistaken identity.
Although Palpal-latoc appreciated the Northern Police District’s intention to provide a refresher course for its police personnel, he emphasized the necessity for this initiative to be carried out nationwide.
“Hindi lang dapat sa istasyon na yon, dapat the entire police force meron. In fact meron din naman ngayon na existing na training na ibinibigay sa kanila on human rights,” Palpal-latoc said.
He observed that the Philippine National Police already possesses operational procedures and guidelines that adhere to a human rights-centered approach.
“Kung susundin mo lang nang tama yun, maiiwasan ang paglabag sa karapatang-pantao,” Palpal-latoc said.
Palpal-latoc also emphasized the significance of police personnel utilizing the body-worn cameras that have been provided to them.