This is a unique opportunity to educate ourselves on the intricacies of due process, which victims of the “war on drugs” have barely enjoyed.
The arrest of Rodrigo Roa Duterte on a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) is a significant step towards justice, as we step closer to a trial on crimes against humanity committed in the Philippines between November 2011 to March 2019.
The long-overdue arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte marks a crucial step toward justice for the countless victims of his ruthless and violent “war on drugs.” It serves as a powerful reminder that no individual, no matter how powerful—even a former president—is above accountability.
The NUPL urges the COMELEC to exercise its full authority under Resolution No. 11116 and impose immediate sanctions on officials and state actors involved in red-tagging. An independent investigation must be conducted into the use of public funds for this illegal operation, particularly the involvement of the NTF-ELCAC and its network of state-aligned groups.
