MANILA, Philippines — On Monday, there was an increase in demands for the government to hold former President Rodrigo Duterte accountable. This followed his testimony at a Senate inquiry where he claimed responsibility for the extrajudicial killings (EJKs) that occurred during his administration’s strong anti-drug campaign from 2016 to 2022.
Former Senator Leila de Lima, who was present at the inquiry, expressed her concerns over Duterte’s admissions. She stated that his acknowledgment of leading the violent campaign highlighted the need for justice for the victims. De Lima emphasized the importance of accountability in addressing the impact of the administration’s actions on numerous families.
Many human rights advocates joined De Lima in calling for accountability. They urged that Duterte’s admission should prompt legal actions and investigations into the thousands of deaths that occurred during his time in office. They argued that the testimonies of the victims’ families should lead to a thorough examination of the policies that encouraged such violence.
The Senate inquiry aimed to investigate the extent of the extrajudicial killings linked to the anti-drug campaign. Duterte’s remarks drew sharp reactions from various sectors, including lawmakers and civil society organizations. Critics argue that his policies normalized violence and contributed to a culture of fear among citizens.
Despite the widespread criticism, Duterte’s supporters maintained that his administration’s approach was necessary to combat drug proliferation. They pointed to his commitment to fighting crime as a priority during his presidency. Proponents argue that the government should instead focus on reforming the justice system and addressing the root causes of drug abuse.