Philippines Anti-Duterte Inquiry: The Profile of Duterte's Drug War Victims and Their Families

In the ongoing debate surrounding the Philippines' anti-Duterte inquiry, it is essential to delve into the profile of the victims of Duterte's drug war and the perspectives of their families. This essay will explore the factors behind the victimization and the efforts—both existing and insufficient—made to address the drug addiction problem.

The Context of Philippine Economic Struggles and the Past

It is often pointed out that Filipinos face significant economic challenges. Some attribute this to a failure to progress forward, glossing over the stark reality of a country with deep socio-economic disparities. Progress, according to many, demands discipline and a strong work ethic. While many indeed possess these qualities, it cannot be denied that others find themselves in dire economic conditions.

The Profile of Duterte's Drug War Victims

The profile of the average victim of Duterte's drug war paints a picture of individuals caught in a cycle of poverty and desperation:

They were mostly poor: Their socio-economic background significantly influenced their vulnerability to drug addiction. They were unarmed: This lack of means prevented many from defending themselves against illegal killings. They were predominantly boys and men: This demographic, unfortunately, is more prone to criminal activities and drug use, although not exclusively so.

The Inadequacy of Existing Rehabilitation Services

While drug rehabilitation services are available, their high costs are a significant barrier. Only the upper middle-class and the wealthy can access them, leaving many individuals in dire situations without the means to address their issues. This financial obstacle underscores the systemic inequality inherent in many of the country's services.

The Impact of Poor Economic Conditions

For those from poorer backgrounds, the allure of drugs as an escape is understandable. Absent the resources to purchase drugs legally or through sustainable means, individuals often resorted to petty crimes to obtain them. This cycle is unsustainable and ultimately provided fuel for exploitation by those who benefited from ensuring law and order, sometimes hiding behind the guise of drug war efforts.

Rehabilitation as a Privilege, Not a Right

It is important to note that the assumption that victims of Duterte's drug war were drug addicts remains unverified in many cases. Emergency Justice Killings (EJKs) might have been mischaracterized as drug-related murders, hiding the true motives and perpetrators. The reliability of intelligence and the transparency of the claims made by law enforcement agencies are also questionable.

Complexity of the Drug War Victims

The assumption that all victims were drug addicts oversimplifies the complexity of the situation. Some might have been small-time users, others might not have been drug users at all, and a significant number might have been scapegoats. The mere absence of physical evidence of drug use does not necessarily imply their innocence or involvement in the drug trade. The need for a thorough, fair, and court-tested investigation remains crucial.

Conclusion

The profile of Duterte's drug war victims and their families is multifaceted, highlighting the deep socio-economic challenges faced by the country. While efforts to address drug addiction and poverty are important, they must be comprehensive and equitable. The ongoing inquiry should strive to uncover the truth and provide justice to all victims, regardless of their backgrounds or alleged connections to the drug trade. This journey towards justice is not merely a reflection of the rule of law but a critical step towards building a more equitable society.