Senator Robinhood "Robin" Padilla has received a letter from the Muslim police officer at the heart of the recent shooting incident at the Taguig City Central Police Station, which resulted in one police officer's death and injuries to two others, including the aforementioned officer.
Padilla states that he wants the Senate to investigate the shooting, following Chief Master Sgt. Al-Rakib Aguell's claim that his act of firing was a result of long-standing mockery related to his religious beliefs.
According to Padilla, Aguell stated that he has previously experienced discrimination and ridicule. On the afternoon of August 7, Aguell claimed that his fellow police officers had secretly served him pork, a food prohibited within his religion.
This incident escalated into a heated argument where Aguell shot Executive Master Sgt. Heriberto Saguiped and Corporal Louie Alison Sindac, resulting in Saguiped's death. Corporal Jestoni Ceñaron fired back at Aguell to cease his actions.
"After presenting Senate Resolution Number 743, Padilla stated, "Muslim Filipinos, who form a minority within the Philippines, face unique challenges in practicing their religious beliefs, especially when it comes to satisfying their basic dietary needs." The resolution requests the Senate Committee on Cultural Communities and Muslim Affairs to initiate an investigation, with the aim of formulating a law for the benefit of the Muslim community.
Padilla emphasized that this is not the first time members of the Muslim community have had their beliefs disrespected. He pointed to an incident on October 9, 2022, when former Senator Leila de Lima was attempted to be held hostage at the PNP Custodial Center because a Muslim prisoner was also served food containing pork.
"The Senate should conduct an investigation in aid of legislation into the plight of the Muslim community in light of the numerous acts and practices that disadvantage and undermine their religious beliefs, particularly in the observation of their dietary principles," Padilla further added.
"Given the recurring unfortunate incidents prejudicial to the Muslim community and their essential need for sustenance through food in line with their dietary principles, it is imperative for the Senate to thoroughly evaluate and formulate effective measures to address and mitigate these occurrences," Padilla emphasized.
(Photo by the Philippine News Agency)
