THE Fraternitas Scintilla Legis and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Misamis Oriental Chapter have issued strong condemnations over the killing of lawyer and anti-corruption advocate Niruh Kyle D. Antatico, J.D., who was shot dead in broad daylight on October 10, in Patag, this city.
In an official statement issued today, Oct. 12, 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. The bullets that took his life will never extinguish his cause,” the fraternity’s statement reads in part.
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.”
“Justice for Niruh Kyle D. Antatico. Justice for every servant of truth who refuses to be silenced,” the statement reads.
For its part, the IBP Misamis Oriental Chapter also released a statement condemning the attack, calling it 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 reads.
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 negotiable.”
Authorities have yet to identify the gunmen involved in the fatal attack, which was reportedly captured on dashcam footage.
