A man named De Juan, Constantino, also known as Juan, was killed by the police in a drug buy-bust operation in Manila on December 6, 2016. The police claimed he was a drug pusher and fired at him because he pulled out a gun. This incident was one of many during the drug war launched by President Rodrigo Duterte, in which at least 6,252 people were killed in encounters with the police. Human rights groups believe the actual number of deaths may be as high as 30,000, including killings by vigilantes. Duterte had made it clear that anyone suspected of selling or using drugs and resisting arrest would be killed, calling them drug addicts who were sick with paranoia and always armed.
After Duterte was arrested and flown to The Hague to stand trial before the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity, the widow of Juan, Lourdes, expressed a mix of emotions. She stated that she was happy about his arrest, but not completely happy, as the police officers who killed her husband were still living freely. Lourdes described Juan as a good man who loved his family and was loved in return. Despite using methamphetamine, Lourdes insisted that he was not a drug dealer. Many families of the victims of Duterte’s drug war had similar feelings about the arrest and expressed a sense of closure but also lingering grief.
Many families of the victims have struggled with the trauma and loss caused by Duterte’s brutal drug war. Several individuals shared their stories, like Ivy, whose husband was found dead with his head wrapped in tape, prompting her to study criminology to become a better police officer, and Normita, whose epileptic son was killed. The families have felt a mix of emotions, including relief and fear for their safety, as they continue to navigate life after the violent and terrorizing era of Duterte’s rule. They have faced challenges in seeking justice for their loved ones and coping with the psychological and emotional impact of the killings.
The arrest of Duterte marked a significant moment for many families who had lost loved ones during the drug war. Despite his previous power and influence, Duterte was now facing due process and being held accountable for his actions. The families expressed a range of emotions, including happiness about his arrest but also the realization of the privilege that due process had been for those considered human in Duterte’s eyes. The families have continued to seek justice and share their stories to ensure that the victims of the drug war are not forgotten and that accountability is upheld for those responsible.
Duterte’s arrest, which was the result of a falling-out between political allies, has caused a stir in the Philippines. His supporters continue to rally behind him, viewing him as a father figure and victim of unjust forces. Despite facing legal challenges, Duterte’s family and allies are fighting back against the charges brought against him. The arrest has brought to light the complexities and divisions within Philippine politics and society, with repercussions felt by those directly impacted by Duterte’s policies and actions. The families of the victims, like Juan’s son Cejhay, continue to seek justice and share their stories to ensure that the memory of their loved ones is not forgotten in the ongoing struggle for accountability and reconciliation.
