Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has berated an alleged abusive motorist even as she ordered a thorough investigation on the incident which was caught on video that went viral showing the suspect brandishing a gun against a motorcycle rider.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has revoked the permit to operate and carry firearms of the motorist identified as Wilfredo Gonzales, allegedly a government employee.
Belmonte gave assurance that she would not allow the case to be whitewashed and punishment given where it is due.
The mayor directed the QC People’s Law Enforcement Board (PLEB) to go after Gonzales who claimed he had already amicably settled the matter with the cyclist.
“We are appealing to the complainant to come forward so that Willy Gonzalez, whom I consider a menace to society, is held accountable,” Belmonte said in a statement.
“We want to assure the cyclist that we will extend legal assistance, as well as put him and his family in our protection so that justice is served. I will not allow this case to be whitewashed,” she added.
Belmonte surmised that the still unidentified cyclist might be afraid as he had gone against someone from the government
Gonzales turned himself in following the viral video which showed him touting a gun and casting expletives at the motorcycle rider.
“This culture of impunity is not acceptable in QC and I have a duty and responsibility to maintain peace and order in our city and to send a strong message that acts such as those committed shall not be tolerated and that he must be held accountable,” Belmonte said.
She said the city government would file appropriate charges against Gonzales on behalf of the cyclist, specifically grave threat, slander by deed, reckless imprudence, physical injuries, and violation of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Belmonte also said her administration would strengthen the safety of bike lanes and deploy more bike patrols.
“We would like to reassure the cycling community and all our citizens for that matter that the city is willing to exhaust all means to demonstrate to them that we will act in their interest and in the pursuit of justice,” she said.
QC police chief Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III said it is up to the cyclist to file a complaint.
“Nasa sa kanya po ‘yun. Wala pong pumipigil sa kanya. Ang settlement naman ‘yan, anytime kung gusto niya umatras, at gusto niya magbago ng isip, e di walang problema po ‘yun,” Torre said in an interview on Unang Balita.
“Ire-request namin na mag-file na today para matapos na ang alingasngas na sinasabi ayaw daw i-file ng pulis,” Torre said.
PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. directed the Civil Security Group, particularly the FEO License Revocation and Restoration Board to nullify both the License to Own and Possess Firearms (LTOPF) and the corresponding firearm registration belonging to Gonzales.
Acorda underscored the importance of responsible firearm ownership for all licensed citizens, saying possession and ownership of firearms are not unrestricted privileges but rather earned rights that come with significant responsibilities.
“Public safety is non-negotiable, and responsible gun ownership is a cornerstone of that safety. We extend our commitment to upholding the wellbeing of our communities and maintaining the highest standards of firearm ownership.” Acorda stressed.
“Let this incident serve as a clear reminder that owning a firearm is a privilege that demands adherence to the law and the highest ethical standards. We urge all gun owners to reflect on their responsibilities and ensure that their actions consistently reflect the values of respect, accountability, and security,” Acorda added.