Duterte Faces Crimes Against Humanity Examination as Families Grapple with grief and Hope
Table of Contents
The International Criminal Court (ICC) is investigating former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity related to the thousands of deaths during his administration’s “war on drugs.” While this legal pursuit unfolds, families left behind by the violence are experiencing a complex mix of emotions – relief, happiness, and enduring grief.Dahlia Cuartero, the mother of Jesus “Daboy” cuartero, killed in 2019, embodies this struggle, finding it difficult to articulate her feelings even after six years.
The Scale of the “war on drugs”
From 2016 to 2022, Duterte’s administration waged a brutal campaign against illegal drugs. The campaign was characterized by extrajudicial killings, with police and vigilantes targeting suspected drug users and dealers. Official government figures report over 6,200 deaths during police operations [Human Rights watch], but estimates from human rights organizations, including the ICC, suggest the actual number could be between 12,000 and 30,000 [International Criminal Court].
Cuartero recounts the pervasive fear in her community,were at least two people where killed each week. Despite the widespread violence, she never imagined her son would become a victim. “but she never thoght her son would be among the up to 30,000 people killed, ofen at point-blank range in the streets,” as she stated in the original report.
The ICC Investigation and Potential Accountability
In 2021, the ICC authorized an investigation into the situation in the Philippines, focusing on alleged crimes against humanity committed during the “war on drugs.” The investigation centers on allegations of murder, torture, and other inhumane acts. [ICC Website – Philippines]
The investigation faced initial resistance from the Philippine government,which withdrew from the ICC in 2019. However, the ICC maintains jurisdiction because the alleged crimes occurred while the Philippines was a member. In January 2023, the ICC resumed its investigation after receiving cooperation from some Philippine authorities [Reuters].
Duterte himself has repeatedly defended the “war on drugs,” claiming it was necessary to combat the country’s drug problem and maintain peace and order. He has also expressed defiance towards the ICC, stating he will not cooperate with the investigation. [Al jazeera]
The Impact on Families and the Search for Justice
For families like Cuartero’s, the ICC investigation offers a glimmer of hope for accountability. though, the path to justice is long and uncertain. Many families have faced obstacles in seeking redress, including fear of retaliation, lack of access to legal resources, and a culture of impunity.The emotional toll on these families is immense. Cuartero’s inability to fully express her feelings – a combination of relief that someone is finaly being held accountable, happiness that her son’s death might not be in vain, and the enduring grief of losing a loved one – highlights the profound and lasting impact of the “war on drugs.”
Key Takeaways
Widespread Killings: Thousands of people were killed during Duterte’s “war on drugs,” with estimates ranging from 12,000 to 30,000.
ICC Investigation: The International Criminal Court is investigating alleged crimes against humanity committed during the campaign.
Accountability Challenges: Families of victims face meaningful challenges in seeking justice and accountability.
Complex Emotions: Families experience a complex mix of emotions, including relief, happiness, and grief, as the investigation progresses.
Looking Ahead
The ICC investigation is a crucial step towards addressing the human rights violations that occurred during the “war on drugs.” However, achieving justice for the victims and their families will require sustained effort, political will, and a commitment to upholding the rule of law.The case also underscores the importance of international cooperation in holding perpetrators of atrocities accountable, irrespective of their position or power