The Fraternitas Scintilla Legis and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Misamis Oriental chapter condemned the killing of lawyer and anti-corruption advocate Niruh Kyle Antatico in Patag village here on Friday, October 10.
In an official statement, the Fraternitas Scintilla Legis denounced the ‘cold-blooded murder’ of their brother, calling Antatico ‘a man of integrity, courage, and principle’ who devoted his life to justice and transparency in public service.
‘We grieve his tragic and untimely death, but we refuse to let his voice be silenced,’ part of the fraternity’s statement read. ‘The bullets that took his life will never extinguish his cause.’
Antatico was shot dead in broad daylight by still unidentified assailants.
The group urged law enforcement agencies – including the Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice – to ‘conduct a thorough, impartial and speedy investigation’ and ensure that ‘the perpetrators and those who ordered this heinous act be brought to justice-swiftly and without exception.’
The fraternity called for justice for Antatico and for every ‘servant of truth who refuses to be silenced.’
The IBP Misamis Oriental chapter called the attack a ‘grave assault on the rule of law.’
The chapter noted that Antatico, a former employee of the National Irrigation Administration-10, had been known for exposing alleged corruption in government offices.
‘Any attack on a person seeking accountability is an attack on the rule of law itself. We cannot allow fear and impunity to erode the foundations of justice and public service,’ the IBP’s statement read.
The chapter urged investigators to pursue every lead, including the possibility that the murder was connected to Antatico’s anti-corruption efforts. It also encouraged anyone with information to come forward.
‘Through collective vigilance and civic courage, we can help ensure that accountability and justice prevail,’ the IBP added.
Both organizations praised Antatico as a ‘champion against corruption and a voice of truth.’
His fraternity vowed that his legacy ‘will continue to burn in the hearts of those who believe that integrity in public service is not negotiableAuthorities have yet to identify the gunmen involved in the fatal attack, which was reportedly captured on dashcam footage.