FAMILIES of those killed in former President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs see his arrest as a step toward justice, though it can never undo their suffering and loss.
Duterte was apprehended upon his arrival in Manila from Hong Kong after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for his alleged role in extrajudicial killings during his administration’s drug war.
Human rights groups estimate over 30,000 people were killed, many without due process. For the families left behind, the pain remains, and no arrest can compensate for their loss.
“At least he was only arrested—our loved ones were executed on the spot,” said Amy Jane Lee, whose husband was shot in 2017.
Dahlia Cuartero, whose son was among the victims, expressed mixed emotions, saying, “I feel an unmatched joy, with tears of relief over Duterte’s arrest.”
Rise Up, a group supporting drug war victims, stressed that accountability should extend beyond Duterte. They urged justice for those who implemented his brutal campaign.
“The people, especially victims’ families, will demand justice. Duterte must face the consequences,” the group stated.
