THE PNP yesterday said the family of Jemboy Baltazar can seek legal remedies if they are not satisfied with the ruling of a Navotas City in connection with the boy’s killing.
PNP spokeswoman Col. Jean Fajardo made the remarks days after the mother of Jemboy, Rodaliza Baltazar, blamed the PNP for the light sentences given to five policemen and the acquittal of another suspect.
Mrs. Baltazar said the killing of her son by Navotas policemen who mistook him for a suspect in a shooting incident on August 2, 2023 year was not “investigated properly” by the PNP.
Mrs. Baltazar said the family could have secured the conviction of the six policemen had the PNP done its job.
The court convicted one of the accused policemen, Staff Sergeant Gerry Sabate Maliban, for homicide and was sentenced to four to six years in prison.
Four others — Executive Master Sergeant Roberto Dioso Balais Jr., Staff Sergeant Nikko Pines Corollo Esquillon, Corporal Edmard Jake Blanco, and Patrolman Benedict Danao Mangada — were found guilty of illegal discharge of firearms and were sentenced to four months in prison.
The sixth policeman, Staff Sgt. Antonio Balcita Bugayong, was acquitted.
In a press briefing at Camp Crame yesterday, Fajardo reiterated the PNP’s condolences to the Baltazar family, noting that no amount of conviction can bring the life of their loved one.
Fajardo said the PNP understands the sentiments of the Baltazar family on the court decision.
“This case went through a process and the regional trial court (RTC) that handled the case has the full discretion on how to try and decide this case,” said Fajardo, commenting on Mrs. Baltazar’s accusation.