In a shocking incident captured by CCTV footage on Thursday, December 7, in Brgy. Zapote Uno, Bacoor, Cavite, a man lost his life after a police officer’s gun discharged during what authorities claim was a physical altercation.

The footage reveals a scuffle between the unidentified man and Police Corporal Carmelito Dominguez.

According to Cpl. Dominguez, the altercation escalated when the man allegedly attempted to seize the officer’s firearm, prompting a life-threatening response.

Cpl. Dominguez clarified that his intention was not to use deadly force.

He explained, “During our struggle, his head was near my foot. My only goal at that point, sir, was to break his foot, hand, and arm. I just wanted to incapacitate him.” (Kasi nung nagpapambuno kami yung ulo po niya nasa paa ko ang gusto ko po lang sana nun sir na mangyari mabali ko paa niya, yung kamay niya, yung braso niya babaliin ko lang sana.)

However, he faced a dilemma as the man reportedly bit his thigh, leaving him with limited options. “I had no choice; I couldn’t break his hand anymore. I was left with no other option but to use my firearm. It was either that or risking more harm to myself,” he added. (Kaya lang sa sitwasyon na yung nakagat ho kasi yung hita ko. No choice na ako di ko mabali yung kamay niya eh wala na. Ang nasa ano ko na lang ito na kako ito kaysa naman na ako ang mayari.)

Expressing gratitude for the presence of barangay CCTV cameras, Cpl. Dominguez acknowledged the importance of video evidence in clarifying the circumstances surrounding the incident.

When asked about the significance of CCTV footage, Cpl. Dominguez remarked, “Yes, sir. (Are you thankful for the CCTV?) Yes, sir. (What if there were none?) It might have resulted in negative feedback for the PNP [Philippine National Police] if there were no CCTV. People might say, ‘Here we go again.'”