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Advocates Philippines
Senators Investigate Road Rage Involving Cyclist And Ex-Cop, Call For Stricter Gun Ownership Regulations
Photo credit: Sen. Bato Dela Rosa
The Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, chaired by Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, held a public inquiry on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, to probe the recent road rage incident that occurred in Quezon City on August 8, 2023, involving a cyclist and a dismissed police officer, Mr. Wilfredo Gonzales.
Senator Dela Rosa expressed the committee's determination to uncover the truth behind the incident, emphasizing that their findings would contribute to the formulation of recommendations and legislation aimed at ensuring the safety of all road users. He noted that while the Senate cannot impose punishment on the individuals involved, it can play a crucial role in revealing the facts of the case.
During the inquiry, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano called for integrity in guaranteeing the safety of Filipinos on the streets, lamenting that it often takes a crisis to prompt action. He urged the House of Representatives and the President to prioritize road safety, emphasizing its importance to the citizens.
Senator Joseph Victor "JV" Ejercito revealed the history of anger management issues associated with the dismissed police officer, Wilfredo Gonzales. Ejercito presented multiple complaints, including light and grave threats, against Gonzales from the barangay blotter in his locality. He questioned how Mr. Gonzales had passed neuro and psychological tests to obtain a license to carry firearms, given his documented anger management problems.
Senator Robinhood Padilla called for responsible firearm ownership during the public inquiry, emphasizing that guns should only be used for defense or sports, not for offensive purposes.
Senate President Juan Miguel "Migz" F. Zubiri, who filed resolutions on road rage incidents in the Philippines, urged gun owners to exercise caution when using firearms.
He emphasized that firearms should only be drawn in situations where lives are at risk or when defending one's family. Zubiri warned that violations of firearms laws could lead to confiscation, license revocation, and permit cancellations.
Senator Dela Rosa expressed the committee's determination to uncover the truth behind the incident, emphasizing that their findings would contribute to the formulation of recommendations and legislation aimed at ensuring the safety of all road users. He noted that while the Senate cannot impose punishment on the individuals involved, it can play a crucial role in revealing the facts of the case.
During the inquiry, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano called for integrity in guaranteeing the safety of Filipinos on the streets, lamenting that it often takes a crisis to prompt action. He urged the House of Representatives and the President to prioritize road safety, emphasizing its importance to the citizens.
Senator Joseph Victor "JV" Ejercito revealed the history of anger management issues associated with the dismissed police officer, Wilfredo Gonzales. Ejercito presented multiple complaints, including light and grave threats, against Gonzales from the barangay blotter in his locality. He questioned how Mr. Gonzales had passed neuro and psychological tests to obtain a license to carry firearms, given his documented anger management problems.
Senator Robinhood Padilla called for responsible firearm ownership during the public inquiry, emphasizing that guns should only be used for defense or sports, not for offensive purposes.
Senate President Juan Miguel "Migz" F. Zubiri, who filed resolutions on road rage incidents in the Philippines, urged gun owners to exercise caution when using firearms.
He emphasized that firearms should only be drawn in situations where lives are at risk or when defending one's family. Zubiri warned that violations of firearms laws could lead to confiscation, license revocation, and permit cancellations.
Sep 6, 2023
