Duterte’s Arrest Sparks Hope for Justice Among Families of Drug War Victims

Jerica Ann Pico, widow of a victim of the Philippines’ drug war, expressed hope for justice following Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest at the ICC’s request. Victims’ families, including those of extrajudicial killings, seek accountability for all involved, spotlighting Ronald dela Rosa’s role. Despite official figures citing 6,200 killings, activists assert the toll is higher, emphasizing the need for comprehensive justice.

Jerica Ann Pico, a widow of a victim of the Philippine drug war, expressed her emotional relief upon learning of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest. She remarked that it felt like renewed hope for justice for her husband, who was among the thousands killed during Duterte’s anti-narcotics campaign. Pico spoke after attending a Mass in Quezon City, where families of victims gathered with reminders of the tragic losses displayed at the altar.

The arrest of Duterte in Manila, orchestrated at the request of the International Criminal Court (ICC), signifies a pivotal moment in the investigation of his notorious “war on drugs.” At 79 years old, he stands on the brink of becoming the first former Asian head of state to face trial at the ICC. Pico articulated the collective desire of families affected by extrajudicial killings, stating, “For families of extra-judicial killing victims, this is our only wish—that those responsible be held accountable.”

Despite Duterte’s withdrawal of the Philippines from the ICC’s founding treaty in 2019, the court maintains jurisdiction regarding events that occurred while the country was a member. Human rights advocates argue that accountability should extend beyond Duterte, urging for justice for others, including Ronald dela Rosa, his former police chief, under ICC investigation for his role in the drug campaign.

The police recorded 6,200 drug war killings during Duterte’s presidency, although activists contend that the actual figures are significantly higher. Pico’s husband was reportedly shot dead in 2019 when police claimed he fired upon them. As she reflected on her loss, she poignantly noted, “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 arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte has instigated a glimmer of hope for families impacted by the drug war in the Philippines, reflecting their ongoing quest for justice. Amidst calls for broader accountability, victims’ families express their yearning for justice not only for Duterte but for all responsible parties. As the ICC probes into the atrocities of the drug campaign, the fight for accountability and recognition of the victims’ suffering continues.

Original Source: sightmagazine.com.au