Duterte’s Enjoyment of Due Process Amidst Victims’ Forgotten Lives

The article contrasts the due process now enjoyed by former President Duterte with the denial of justice experienced by his drug war victims. It shares the painful stories of families affected by the violence, highlighting their grief and the stark inequity in treatment. Duterte’s current legal battles are juxtaposed against the tragic losses endured by thousands, emphasizing the lasting impact of his regime’s violence.

This article discusses the juxtaposition of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s current legal situation with the denial of due process experienced by countless victims of his drug war. Due to his policies, thousands of individuals, estimated between 6,252 and 30,000, lost their lives in various alleged police encounters, often without proper legal recourse or justification. Mr. Duterte’s statements indicated a clear intent for fatal action against those suspected of drug-related offenses, framing the killings as acts of justice rather than murder.

A poignant account of the personal impact of Duterte’s drug war is shared through the lens of victims’ families. Specifically, the narrative follows the widow of Constantino Juan, Lourdes, who reflects on the bittersweet nature of Duterte’s arrest—expressing a happiness that is tempered by the reality that the officers responsible for her husband’s death remain unpunished. The emotional pain for victims’ families is emphasized through personal stories and memories, highlighting the lasting scars left by violence.

The author recounts interactions with various family members of victims, illustrating their grief and ongoing fears within a legacy of terror. Each loss resonates deeply, as families remember the fundamental humanity of those who were murdered. Descriptions of crime scenes evoke a haunting picture of the brutality witnessed under Duterte’s regime, where even the definition of a human was manipulated.

As Duterte faces trial, the stark contrast between the privileges he enjoys and the lack of rights granted to his victims is highlighted. Upon arrest, he received a dignified process, while his victims were denied any semblance of justice. The article draws attention to the ongoing support for Duterte among certain factions in the Philippines, illustrating how political alliances and public perception remain intertwined.

Finally, the article closes with personal testimonies from the victims’ families, particularly focusing on Juan’s son, Cejhay, who poignantly desires to keep his father’s memory alive. It emphasizes the profound emotional toll inflicted on families as they grapple with their losses and seek recognition of their loved ones.

In summary, the article illustrates the deep injustices resulting from Duterte’s anti-drug campaign. While he now faces legal repercussions, the thousands of victims and their families continue to live with the consequences of his policies, a striking reminder of the disparity in the treatment of citizens versus those in power. The family narratives serve to humanize the statistics and underscore the ongoing search for justice where it remains elusive.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com