Double-Edged Sword

The arrest this week of former President and Davao mayoralty candidate Rodrigo Duterte is one crucial and decisive moment that has been long-awaited in the pursuit of justice for the victims of human rights violations in his aggressive and violent war on drugs. It has heightened political tensions in the country, yet it is an important step in strengthening the role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in addressing crimes against humanity by state leaders. It has been called by Duterte’s family and supporters as an insult and offense against national sovereignty, Even though Duterte withdrew from the ICC in 2019, the court maintains jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was still a member-that is, before 2019.

The failure of our own justice system to hold abusive leaders accountable has compelled international justice to step in, since the ICC only prosecutes cases when national courts fail to act. This justifies the ICC’s action then. Hence, the argument that it violates national sovereignty does not hold enough validity.

The thousands of extrajudicial killings, recorded from 6,000 to over 30,000 without due process and fair trial, makes for a strong case in lawlessness and brutality, and leaders must face accountability for this even after leaving office.

Duterte’s legal battle will certainly be a long one, but it can be a double edged sword that can both deepen political divides in the country and force the Philippine justice system to assess its handling of human rights cases.

QUOTATION OF THE WEEK:

“Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.” – Benjamin Franklin

FOR OUR WORD OF GOD:

“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” - Isaiah 1:17