Kailangan Managot: Families Demand Justice for Drug War Victims in the Philippines<br>Subtitle:As the eighth anniversary of the Duterte administration's war on drugs approaches, families of victims call for accountability and prosecution of the former president.<br>Introduction:<br>The brutal war on drugs initiated by former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has left a deep and painful scar on the nation. As families gathered at the Siena College Chapel to commemorate the eighth anniversary of their loved ones' deaths, they united in a powerful call for justice. This gathering underscores the ongoing struggle for accountability in a campaign that has claimed thousands of lives, raising critical questions about human rights, governance, and the rule of law in the Philippines. With estimates of casualties ranging from 6,181 to as high as 30,000, the demand for prosecution of those responsible is more urgent than ever.<br>The Scale of the Tragedy<br>The anti-narcotics campaign launched by Duterte in 2016 was marked by widespread reports of extrajudicial killings and human rights abuses. Official government statistics acknowledge 6,181 deaths, but human rights organizations and advocacy groups argue that the actual number may be significantly higher. This discrepancy highlights the need for a thorough investigation into the police operations and the policies that facilitated this violence.<br>Families Unite for Justice<br>During the recent commemoration, families of victims shared their stories, expressing their grief and frustration. The emotional toll of losing a loved one to the drug war has left many in a state of despair, yet they remain resolute in their pursuit of justice. "We cannot let their deaths be in vain," said one family member. "We want accountability and for those responsible to face the consequences of their actions."<br>Duterte’s Response<br>In a recent Senate appearance, Duterte claimed he takes "full responsibility" for the war on drugs but insisted that the campaign was "not about killing people." This statement has been met with skepticism, as many argue that his administration's policies directly encouraged violence and lawlessness. The juxtaposition of his claims against the reality faced by families of victims raises questions about the sincerity of his accountability.<br>A Call for Accountability<br>Human rights advocates and international organizations have been vocal in demanding accountability for the atrocities committed during Duterte's term. The push for prosecution is not only about seeking justice for the victims but also about restoring faith in the Philippine justice system. As families continue to fight for their loved ones, they are also fighting for systemic change to prevent future abuses.<br>Block Quote:<br>"The war on drugs has been a tragedy for countless families in the Philippines. It is imperative that we hold those in power accountable for their actions to ensure that such human rights violations never happen again." – [Human Rights Watch]<br>Conclusion:<br>The call for accountability in the Duterte administration's war on drugs is a testament to the resilience of the families affected by this tragedy. As they continue to seek justice, their voices underscore the importance of human rights and the need for a legal framework that protects citizens rather than endangers them. The fight for justice is far from over, and it remains crucial for the global community to support these families in their quest for truth and accountability. The demand for Duterte's prosecution is not just about retribution; it is about healing and ensuring that history does not repeat itself.<br>

As the eighth anniversary of the Duterte administration's war on drugs approaches, families of victims call for accountability and prosecution of the former president.<br>Introduction:<br>The brutal war on drugs initiated by former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has left a deep and painful scar on the nation. As families gathered at the Siena College Chapel to commemorate the eighth anniversary of their loved ones' deaths, they united in a powerful call for justice. This gathering underscores the ongoing struggle for accountability in a campaign that has claimed thousands of lives, raising critical questions about human rights, governance, and the rule of law in the Philippines. With estimates of casualties ranging from 6,181 to as high as 30,000, the demand for prosecution of those responsible is more urgent than ever.<br>The Scale of the Tragedy<br>The anti-narcotics campaign launched by Duterte in 2016 was marked by widespread reports of extrajudicial killings and human rights abuses. Official government statistics acknowledge 6,181 deaths, but human rights organizations and advocacy groups argue that the actual number may be significantly higher. This discrepancy highlights the need for a thorough investigation into the police operations and the policies that facilitated this violence.<br>Families Unite for Justice<br>During the recent commemoration, families of victims shared their stories, expressing their grief and frustration. The emotional toll of losing a loved one to the drug war has left many in a state of despair, yet they remain resolute in their pursuit of justice. "We cannot let their deaths be in vain," said one family member. "We want accountability and for those responsible to face the consequences of their actions."<br>Duterte’s Response<br>In a recent Senate appearance, Duterte claimed he takes "full responsibility" for the war on drugs but insisted that the campaign was "not about killing people." This statement has been met with skepticism, as many argue that his administration's policies directly encouraged violence and lawlessness. The juxtaposition of his claims against the reality faced by families of victims raises questions about the sincerity of his accountability.<br>A Call for Accountability<br>Human rights advocates and international organizations have been vocal in demanding accountability for the atrocities committed during Duterte's term. The push for prosecution is not only about seeking justice for the victims but also about restoring faith in the Philippine justice system. As families continue to fight for their loved ones, they are also fighting for systemic change to prevent future abuses.<br>Block Quote:<br>"The war on drugs has been a tragedy for countless families in the Philippines. It is imperative that we hold those in power accountable for their actions to ensure that such human rights violations never happen again." – [Human Rights Watch]<br>Conclusion:<br>The call for accountability in the Duterte administration's war on drugs is a testament to the resilience of the families affected by this tragedy. As they continue to seek justice, their voices underscore the importance of human rights and the need for a legal framework that protects citizens rather than endangers them. The fight for justice is far from over, and it remains crucial for the global community to support these families in their quest for truth and accountability. The demand for Duterte's prosecution is not just about retribution; it is about healing and ensuring that history does not repeat itself.<br>