MANILA – The Supreme Court denounced the killing of Palawan-based lawyer Joshua Lavega Abrina, who was shot dead by an unidentified assailant outside his residence on September 17.

Acting Chief Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen called the incident a “senseless act of violence” and extended condolences to Abrina’s family, colleagues, and friends.

“The killing of a member of the legal profession is a grave matter that strikes at the very core of justice and the rule of law. It must never be taken lightly,” Leonen said.

The Supreme Court noted that the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has already coordinated with law enforcement agencies to pursue investigations and gather evidence against the perpetrators.

Leonen directed the Court’s Chief Marshal and Deputy Marshal for Luzon to secure updates from law enforcement to provide the Court with information needed to review policies on lawyer safety.

He also ordered the Court Administrator to instruct Executive Judges to hold dialogues and focus group discussions with IBP chapters and other lawyers’ organizations to assess local conditions and recommend measures to enhance security.

The results of these consultations will be forwarded to the Supreme Court committees on Human Rights, Access to Justice, and Oversight of the IBP for immediate action.