Families of Philippine Drug War Victims Demand Investigation Into Harassment

Families of Philippine drug war victims are calling for an investigation into online harassment they have faced, particularly following the arrest of former President Duterte. They assert that this coordinated campaign aims to discredit their efforts for justice. Legal representatives are urging authorities to identify those behind the attacks as false claims proliferate on social media.

The families of victims from the Philippine drug war are advocating for an investigation into a systematic campaign of online harassment they have experienced. This appeal comes after the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte on March 11, leading to heightened attacks against those seeking justice for their loved ones. Sheerah Escudero, whose brother was killed in 2017, emphasizes the need for accountability amidst intense online bullying.

Katherine Panguban of the National Union of People’s Lawyers, representing Escudero and others, stated that the victims’ families are enduring brutal online harassment, receiving accusations of being liars, paid advocates, and false victims. Escudero reported that her social media accounts have been inundated with derogatory statements aimed at undermining her quest for justice.

In conjunction with Escudero, Kristina Conti, a human rights attorney, has also faced online attacks and has urged the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to identify those responsible for the harassment. This coordinated effort highlights an increase in tactics used to discredit families seeking justice for victims of Duterte’s administration.

Panguban highlighted, “We hope the NBI can assist in unmasking the individuals responsible so appropriate legal action can be taken.” Despite these online challenges, the families emphasize their resolve to seek justice, while Duterte’s supporters falsely characterize his arrest as unlawful.

Duterte, who governed the Philippines from 2016 until 2022, faces serious allegations of crimes against humanity due to the violent anti-drug campaign he implemented, resulting in numerous fatalities. As he awaits trial, his claim of taking full responsibility for the drug war continues to receive mixed reactions from the community and beyond.

In summary, families of Philippine drug war victims are addressing the serious issue of online harassment they have faced during their pursuit of justice. They are urging law enforcement agencies to conduct thorough investigations into these attacks, which they see as efforts to undermine their credibility. With significant allegations against former President Duterte looming large, these individuals are resolute in their fight for accountability and truth amidst a backdrop of intimidation and misinformation.

Original Source: www.usnews.com