Filipino Bishops Affirm Duterte’s Arrest as Progress Towards Justice

Filipino Bishops are in favor of former President Duterte’s arrest on charges of crimes against humanity, viewing it as a crucial step toward accountability in human rights violations. Duterte’s administration has faced extensive allegations of extrajudicial killings, prompting investigations by the International Criminal Court (ICC). His extradition has drawn support from various groups, echoing calls for justice and legal accountability.

Bishops in the Philippines have expressed their support for the recent arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, viewing it as an important stride toward accountability regarding human rights violations in the nation. This action follows the issuance of an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant related to Duterte’s infamous “war on drugs,” during which he presided over numerous extrajudicial killings. His detention occurred on March 11 at Manila airport after his arrival on a flight from the Netherlands.

During Duterte’s administration from 2016 to 2022, he faced serious allegations of extrajudicial killings, particularly targeting young men from marginalized communities. While official reports cite over 6,200 such killings, independent observers suggest the number may actually range between 12,000 and 30,000. The scope of the ICC investigation spans from 2011 to 2019, covering his tenure as mayor of Davao, where his family maintained power for several decades.

The extradition of Duterte to The Hague has garnered widespread support among the Catholic Church, human rights advocates, and the victims’ families. Nevertheless, his supporters perceive his arrest as unjust persecution for a leader they believe improved national safety. Bishop Gerardo Alminaza from Caritas Philippines remarked that the killings during Duterte’s rule resulted from systematic policies, undermining the fundamental right to life. Accusations at the ICC allege he orchestrated a “death squad” against drug suspects in Davao, which extended nationally during his presidency.

Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo of Kidapawan emphasized the significance of Duterte’s arrest in delivering justice to the victims, asserting that accountability, transparency, and human dignity are paramount. He urged Duterte to fulfill his past claims of readiness to accept the consequences of his actions. In a statement released on March 11, the humanitarian branch of the Catholic Church called for truth, reparations, and justice, deeming this arrest a pivotal moment for the country to prevent future atrocities and uphold the rule of law.

The Catholic Church had previously criticized Duterte’s approach to drug enforcement. Bishop Broderick Pabillo of Taytay asserted that while an arrest does not imply guilt, the crimes under Duterte’s governance warrant investigation, highlighting that justice involves the principle that no one is above the law. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, echoed these views, marking the arrest as a significant move toward accountability.

Despite Duterte’s assertions that the ICC lacks jurisdiction, activist lawyer Aaron Pedrosa explained that the Rome Statute permits the court to retain jurisdiction over alleged crimes occurring before a nation withdraws from the tribunal. Therefore, Duterte’s recent arrest represents an important development regarding human rights accountability in the Philippines.

The Filipino Bishops’ support of former President Duterte’s arrest signifies a collective move toward addressing human rights violations. The emphasis on accountability, the need for justice for victims, and the insistence on upholding the rule of law reflect a strong commitment to confronting systematic violence. This arrest not only holds personal implications for Duterte but also sets a vital precedent for future governance and accountability in the Philippines.

Original Source: www.vaticannews.va