The Daily Tribune
DepEd condemns legal officer’s slay
Atty. Joshua Abrina, a former legal officer of the Department of Education (DepEd) Palawan and current Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) official, was shot dead outside his home in Puerto Princesa City on Wednesday night, September 17.
He was shot around 8:30 p.m. while about to enter his home in Barangay San Jose.
Abrina, 32, was declared dead on arrival at ACE Hospital due to a gunshot wound.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara condemned the killing as a "senseless act of violence" that "strike[s] at the very principles of justice and public service," honoring Abrina's service, integrity, and commitment.
DepEd pledged full cooperation with law enforcement agencies for a swift investigation and urged the Philippine National Police, the National Bureau of Investigation, and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines to provide support.
The department also emphasized the need to guarantee the safety of Abrina's family and witnesses for the truth to prevail.
His death marks the eighth victim among legal professionals since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office in 2022.
A special investigation task group has been created to investigate the incident.
The Supreme Court, PPA, and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines have also condemned the killing and urged authorities to bring the perpetrator to justice.
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