House prosecutor Terry Ridon opposed calls for the Philippines to return to an “iron-fist” approach to law enforcement following the fatal stabbing of a motorcycle rider in Caloocan City.
During a press briefing, Ridon questioned whether the public wanted to return to a period marked by alleged extrajudicial killings (EJKs), noting that related cases remain under trial before the court in The Hague, Netherlands.
Ridon said social media posts calling for the elimination of criminals may appear appealing to some, but stressed that innocent lives were also lost during the anti-drug campaign associated with allegations of extrajudicial killings.
He cited the case of Kian Delos Santos and other young victims whose lives were cut short during anti-drug operations, saying these incidents should not be forgotten in discussions about crime and public safety.
Meanwhile, House impeachment adviser and spokesperson Robert Ace Barbers said repeat offenders who commit serious crimes should face life imprisonment if found guilty based on strong evidence.
Barbers maintained, however, that the recent stabbing incident should not be viewed as an issue tied to any particular administration.
He also questioned whether the public truly wanted to return to a time when fatal shootings were frequently reported, with suspects often alleged to have fought back against authorities or been linked to illegal drugs.
According to Barbers, accountability should be pursued through the justice system. He said if investigators gather strong evidence against a suspect who allegedly claimed the stabbing was done “for fun,” the proper place for that individual would be the New Bilibid Prison.
The officials made the remarks as public discussions continued over crime, punishment and the country’s approach to law enforcement following the Caloocan City stabbing case.
