The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday welcomed the Supreme Court ruling affirming the conviction of police officers involved in the 2017 killing of 17-year-old Kian delos Santos.
PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the decision shows that due process and the rule of law are working, even in difficult cases.
He said the ruling would guide the crafting and implementation of policies to prevent similar incidents and strengthen accountability within the police force.
The High Court found Arnel Oares, Jeremias Pereda, and Jerwin Cruz guilty of murder and sentenced them to reclusion perpetua, or up to 40 years in prison.
Nartatez warned erring officers that violations of duty will not go unpunished and reaffirmed the PNP’s commitment to professionalism and justice.
