Child rights groups warns of 'devastating' impact on children who witnessed Tarlac shooting
MANILA, Philippines (Updated 3:37 p.m) — Child rights groups warned that there could be a “devastating” long-term impact on children who witnessed an off-duty policeman shooting a mother and her son in Paniqui, Tarlac.
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and Save the Children Philippines said in separate statements that the incident can cause phisycal and mental health problems which could appear later in adulthood.
“The brutal incident can cause irreparable trauma, especially to the children involved, that may manifest later in the form of depression, anxiety, anger, disassociation, and other health problems,” Save the Children Philippines said.
It added that all forms of violence are unacceptable, especially if these were committed in the presence of children, saying that this “sets a dangerous example to a generation of future leaders and parents.”
“It is of utmost importance for adults to set a good example to the younger generation to help bring us closer to a future without violence against children,” the group said.
Bullying children makes it worse
UNICEF and Save the Children were also one in warning the public against bullying minors present at the crime scene, saying that they are also victims.
"We appeal to the public to refrain from using violent language and posting her photos and personal information," UNICEF said, referring to Nuezca's daughter, who was at the scene. "This only causes additional harm, trauma, and stigma to the child."
The Commission on Human Rights has also urged the public to avoid vilifying Nuezca’s daughter as it may inflict “irreparable trauma” on her.
Police SMSgt. Jonel Nuezca, 46, of the Parañaque City Crime Laboratory shot twice in the head Sonya Gregorio, 52, and her son Frank Anthony, 25, last Sunday.
The incident was witnessed by several minors, including Nuezca’s own daughter, who has also caught the ire of netizens.
News reports said that Nuezca’s daughter and the minor who filmed the incident on a mobile phone camera have undergone psychological debriefing. — Xave Gregorio
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