Negros Occidental: A prelate said Thursday the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte is a glimmer of hope for the victims of his bloody crackdown on illegal drugs and their families. In a statement, San Carlos, Negros Occidental Bishop Gerardo Alminaza said this development has given renewed vigor to advocates of peace and justice.
According to Philippines News Agency, Bishop Alminaza expressed that the issuance of an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against former President Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity stemming from his drug war policy represents a significant moment. He noted that this development brings a measure of hope and solace to the thousands of families who lost their loved ones during Duterte’s war-on-drugs and war-on-rights, a period marked by impunity and reward-driven killings.
Bishop Alminaza emphasized that the arrest and surrender of the former chief executive to the ICC on charges of crimes against humanity is an “initial step towards accountability.” He also expressed hopes that other perpetrators of the drug war will eventually be brought to justice.
The prelate also voiced his concern that some Filipinos continue to support Duterte’s violent anti-drug campaign, stating they are blinded by the narrative that criminality and drug addiction can be eradicated through violent means. He called on these individuals to reconsider their stance, highlighting the long-standing issue of impunity in the Philippines and emphasizing the importance of holding Duterte accountable as a warning to future leaders who might violate human rights.
Bishop Alminaza reiterated the Catholic Church’s opposition to the previous administration’s bloody drug war, urging a critical re-evaluation of values to reaffirm the commitment to the sanctity of all life. He pointed out the complicity of those who enabled the atrocities and stressed the need for collective action in addressing these issues.
Currently, Duterte is detained at the ICC Detention Center in The Hague, Netherlands, with the ICC setting the next hearing to confirm his charges on September 23.
