Duterte’s Arrest Revives Hope for Justice Among Drug War Victims’ Families
The arrest of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has sparked hope for justice among families of drug war victims. Jerica Ann Pico, widow of a victim, expresses her joy at seeing potential accountability after years of loss. The case highlights the need for broader justice, as advocates argue that other officials also played roles in the crisis.
The recent arrest of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has reignited hopes for justice among the families of victims of the drug war. Jerica Ann Pico, the widow of one such victim, expressed overwhelming emotion upon hearing the news, stating that it felt like a breath of fresh life entering her world. Her husband was one of the thousands killed during Duterte’s harsh anti-narcotics campaign, leading many to believe justice might be within reach.
Many families of victims attended a Mass in Quezon City following Duterte’s arrest, where photographs of their lost relatives were displayed prominently. Pico articulated a collective sentiment: “What we have been fighting for is finally coming to fruition – we are finally getting justice for our loved ones who were taken from us.” The Mass served as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of Duterte’s six-year initiative.
Duterte’s recent apprehension in Manila, prompted by the International Criminal Court (ICC), may lead to him becoming the first Asian former head of state to face trial at the ICC. Human rights advocates have underscored that the accountability should not rest solely on Duterte. Emily Soriano, another victim’s family member, emphasized the need for broader accountability: “They should be with Duterte and not just Duterte being the only one held accountable.”
While official reports tally the number of suspects killed during Duterte’s anti-drug operations at 6,200, activists allege the true figure could be significantly higher. Many victims, particularly from marginalized backgrounds, have faced unlawful killings outside the detailed statistics. Pico recounted that her husband, Mark Anthony Ruivivar, was placed on a watchlist in 2018 and was shot dead by police the following year.
As the journey towards justice continues, Pico reflected on the painful irreversibility of loss: “At least Duterte will only be imprisoned. His family will still get to see him, visit him. Unlike us who lost our loved ones, we will never see them again.” The implications of judicial accountability in this case may resonate far beyond the Philippines, offering a glimmer of hope for numerous families affected by the violence of the past few years.
In summary, the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte represents a pivotal moment for families of drug war victims in the Philippines, instilling renewed hope for accountability and justice. While Duterte faces potential trial at the International Criminal Court, advocates stress that wider systemic accountability is essential. The ongoing struggle for justice embodies the profound grief and loss experienced by numerous families, continuing to call for recognition and reparation amid a complex socio-political landscape.
Original Source: sightmagazine.com.au
