AS a columnist, I have often reminded myself that in a world overflowing with opinion, speculation and social media conjecture, one principle remains steadfast: “Hindi nagsisinungaling ang ebidensya” — the evidence does not lie.
I first heard those words from Gus Abelgas on his iconic TV program SOCO, and they have stayed with me ever since. Abelgas understood that no narrative, no spin, no public uproar could ever alter the facts revealed by evidence.
Last Monday in Marilao, Bulacan, that lesson was driven home with tragic clarity.
A police captain, entrusted with the uniform he wore, had just robbed a convenience store. Minutes later, responding officers from Police Regional Office 3 confronted him, and in the ensuing shootout, he was killed.
The incident sparked instant speculation online, with some questioning the motives and integrity of the PRO3 officers.
But the facts speak unmistakably: the stolen cash was recovered, eyewitnesses identified the suspect and forensic evidence confirmed the sequence of events. It is a stark and painful truth, yet Abelgas’ words resonate — evidence does not lie, even when it implicates someone we least expect.
I watched PBGen. Rogelio “Pojie” Peñones Jr. faced the cameras, carrying the heavy weight of loss while presenting the unvarnished truth.
He did not seek to defend the indefensible or manage public opinion; he was standing by the facts.
Under the leadership of PNP Acting Chief PLtGen Jose Melencio “Tateng” Nartatez Jr., the PRO3 team acted within the law and fulfilled their duty, even as they faced the tragic death of a fellow officer in the line of justice.
Moments like this reveal the true cost of the badge — when courage and conscience collide with chaos.
As I write this, I reflect on what it truly means to serve and uphold justice.
The Marilao incident is a somber reminder that truth is unflinching. Rumors swirl, narratives clash and opinions flare, but evidence endures, immutable and precise.
If we are to honor those who serve — and to learn from moments of tragedy — we must listen first to what the evidence reveals. And as Gus Abelgas has always reminded us, it never lies.
