The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has expressed full support for the House of Representatives’ Quad Committee’s call to file crimes against humanity charges against former President Rodrigo Duterte and his allies. This follows the committee’s findings from 13 public hearings examining the controversial anti-drug campaign, which allegedly led to widespread extrajudicial killings.
CHR supports Quad Committee’s findings
On December 24, the CHR released a statement endorsing the Quad Committee’s recommendation. The committee gathered testimonies and sworn statements pointing to extrajudicial killings during Duterte’s “war on drugs.” The CHR acknowledged these findings and stated that the time has come to pursue justice for the victims of these crimes.
The commission emphasized the importance of addressing these violations as part of a broader commitment to human rights. It argued that justice cannot be achieved without accountability, urging that no one, regardless of their position, should be above the law.
House panel urges charges against Duterte allies
Along with Duterte, the Quad Committee’s findings implicated several key figures from his administration, including Senators Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa and Christopher “Bong” Go, as well as former Philippine National Police (PNP) chiefs Oscar Albayalde and Debold Sinas. The committee believes these officials played significant roles in the violence during the anti-drug campaign.
The CHR commended the committee for recommending the classification of extrajudicial killings as a heinous crime and suggested the death penalty as a possible penalty. Despite this, the commission reiterated its commitment to independent investigations and ensuring that the pursuit of justice remains thorough and unimpeded.
A call for justice amid political challenges
While the CHR supports the pursuit of justice for the victims, several accused officials have denied the allegations. Senators Go and Dela Rosa, both strong Duterte allies, dismissed the accusations as politically motivated. They have vowed to challenge the findings in court if charges are filed against them.
Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, chair of the Quad Committee, defended the investigation, asserting that the committee’s conclusions were based on solid evidence rather than political bias. He emphasized that the recommendations aimed to achieve justice for the families of the victims, many of whom have been left in the dark about the perpetrators behind the violence.
Public and official reactions
The CHR’s call for action has sparked significant public discourse, with many citizens supporting the commission’s stance on human rights and accountability.
Netizens quickly took to Twitter to express their opinions on the matter:
- @PhilippineCitizen: “It’s about time the victims of the drug war get justice. Duterte and his allies must be held accountable.”
- @HumanRightsPH: “The war on drugs should not be used as an excuse for murder. Justice for the victims!”
- @JusticeForAllPH: “No one should be above the law. I fully support the CHR’s call for action.”
- @FilipinoVoices: “The political interference in this case is real. These accusations need to be thoroughly examined.”
- @StopImpunityPH: “It’s time for accountability. The government must end its culture of impunity.”
- @TrueJusticePH: “Duterte and his allies must face the consequences of their actions, no matter how powerful they are.”
Next steps in the investigation
The Quad Committee is set to continue its hearings in January, with more developments expected in the coming months. The outcome of these hearings could potentially reshape the country’s approach to drug policy and human rights. The CHR is determined to ensure that all those responsible for the extrajudicial killings during Duterte’s administration are held accountable.
As the case progresses, the public’s demand for justice grows louder, signaling that the government must address the human rights violations that occurred during this controversial period in the nation’s history.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.