The Supreme Court strongly condemned the killing of Atty. Joshua Lavega Abrina, a Palawan-based lawyer who was shot dead by an unidentified gunman outside his residence on September 17, 2025.

In a statement issued Tuesday, Acting Chief Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen described the attack as a “senseless act of violence” and a grave assault on the legal profession.

“The killing of a member of the legal profession is a grave matter that strikes at the very core of justice and the rule of law. It must never be taken lightly,” Leonen said, extending condolences to the family, colleagues, and friends of Atty. Abrina.

The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has begun coordinating with law enforcement agencies to investigate the crime and gather evidence for the prosecution of those responsible. The Court is also awaiting updates from the IBP Palawan Chapter and its National Office.

To ensure accountability and prevent similar attacks, Leonen directed the Chief Marshal and Deputy Marshal for Luzon to liaise with investigators and provide the Court with information to help refine its policies on lawyer safety.

The Acting Chief Justice further ordered the Court Administrator to have Executive Judges of trial courts convene dialogues with IBP chapters and other lawyers’ groups in their jurisdictions. These consultations aim to assess the situation on the ground and propose recommendations to strengthen protection for members of the legal profession.

The findings will be submitted to the Supreme Court Committees on Human Rights, Access to Justice, and Oversight of the IBP for immediate action.