The recent arrest of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte marks a significant turning point in the long and tumultuous journey toward justice for the victims of his notorious war on drugs. This campaign, which has been widely condemned for its brutality and disregard for human rights, has left thousands dead and countless families shattered. As Duterte faces charges of crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court, many are hopeful that this development will not only bring accountability for his actions but also shine a light on the broader network of complicity that enabled such atrocities.
The International Criminal Court’s decision to pursue charges against Duterte is a powerful statement against state-sponsored violence. However, it raises an important question: will the international community extend its reach to hold accountable those who supported and facilitated Duterte’s regime? Notably, this includes U.S. Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden, as well as current Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The complicity of these leaders in financing and supporting Duterte’s violent policies cannot be overlooked. Both the Trump and Biden administrations have been criticized for their military aid to the Philippines, which has been linked to the ongoing human rights abuses under Duterte and Marcos.
In 2018 and 2024, international people’s tribunals convened in Brussels, where families of victims shared harrowing testimonies about the extrajudicial killings that have plagued the Philippines. These tribunals highlighted the continuation of Duterte’s violent policies under Marcos, emphasizing that the bloodshed did not cease with Duterte’s departure from office. The findings of these tribunals revealed a disturbing pattern: the U.S. has remained one of the largest providers of military aid to the Philippines, despite the documented human rights violations associated with that support.
The implications of Duterte’s drug war extend far beyond the immediate victims. The campaign targeted not only drug users but also activists, dissidents, and anyone deemed a threat to the regime. The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), established under Duterte and further empowered by Marcos, has weaponized the civilian bureaucracy to suppress dissent. Activists have faced systematic killings, illegal arrests, and even torture. The recent abduction of environmental activists Jonila Castro and Jhed Tamano serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing risks faced by those who dare to speak out against the government.
Irene Khan, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, has called for the abolition of the NTF-ELCAC, citing its role in endangering lives. She has condemned the practice of “red-tagging,” where individuals and organizations are labeled as communists or terrorists, often leading to violence against them. This practice has been recognized as a violation of international humanitarian law, which is designed to protect civilians during conflicts.
As the world watches Duterte’s trial unfold, it is crucial to remember that the quest for justice must encompass all victims of his regime, including those targeted for their political beliefs. The evidence presented at the tribunals has documented indiscriminate bombings in rural areas, purportedly aimed at guerrilla bases, which have resulted in significant civilian casualties. Both Duterte and Marcos bear responsibility for these actions, and accountability must extend to them and their international supporters.
The potential return of Trump to the White House raises concerns about the future of U.S. support for the Philippines. While some aid may be cut, there are indications that military assistance for counterinsurgency operations may continue. This ongoing support could further entrench the cycle of violence and impunity in the Philippines.
The path to justice for the victims of Duterte’s drug war is fraught with challenges, but the recent developments signal a growing recognition of the need for accountability. Activists and advocates around the world are calling for a comprehensive approach that addresses not only the actions of Duterte but also the complicity of those who enabled his regime. As the international community grapples with these issues, it is essential to amplify the voices of those who have suffered and to ensure that the lessons learned from this dark chapter are not forgotten.
In the words of Bernadette Ellorin, national spokesperson for Bayan USA, and Azadeh Shahshahani, legal and advocacy director at Project South, the fight for justice must continue. The world must hold accountable not only those who directly perpetrated violence but also those who financed and supported such actions. Only then can the Philippines hope to heal from the wounds of the past and build a future grounded in genuine democracy and respect for human rights.