THE recent killing of a lawyer in Bacolod City has again undermine the rule of law.
On Thursday, lawyer Rafael Atotubo, who was handling drug cases, was gunned down by unidentified assailants in front of his rented house at Galo BBB in Barangay 20.
He was just sitting outside his home when he got attacked by the motorcycle-riding suspects.
The armed back rider, who was wearing a black jacket, bonnet and helmet, alighted from the motorcycle and shot the victim twice.
The victim was rushed to a hospital where he was declared dead upon arrival. He succumbed to a gunshot wound below his left eyebrow.
Police probers are looking at all possible motives including the victim's work as defense lawyer of drug personalities.
The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) has created a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) to focus on the investigation on the killing.
The Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Negros Occidental chapter has condemned the "vicious act" against Atotubo.
"Any attack against a lawyer weakens the practice of law and demoralizes lawyers from fulfilling their sworn duty to defend their clients. It threatens the independence of lawyers and judges, hindering their pursuit toward an effective administration of justice. Ultimately, an attack against a lawyer is a threat against civil liberties and should not be tolerated," the local chapter of IBP said.
Authorities are urged to look thoroughly on the case.