WHAT ABOUT THE OTHERS?
NOW that the principal suspect in the extrajudicial killings (EJKs) has been arrested, it is time for those involved in the execution to be charged also, Bataan Rep. Geraldine Roman said.
Roman called on local prosecutors to pursue legal action against other officials involved in the brutal drug war, which led to thousands of EJKs.
Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has been arrested by the Interpol through a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on charges of crimes against humanity.
Roman, chairperson of the House committee on women and gender equality, stressed that those who played a role in implementing Duterte’s war on drugs should also be held accountable.
“Now, with regards to the others, I don’t know. Nandidiyan ‘din yung ating mga local prosecutors,” Roman said.
“Yes, everybody who was involved in that war against drugs and the EJKs may have some degree of culpability, and what comes to mind right now is yung command responsibility,” Roman added.
She pointed out that while guilt is often viewed as a personal matter, leaders who designed and executed violent policies cannot be absolved of responsibility.
“You know, there are claims that guilt is only personal, but what about, I don’t know, in cases like kidnapping, hindi ba ang mastermind mayroon din degree of culpability? The brains behind that policy, the man who designed that policy, dapat meron siyang responsibility rin sa usapin na ito,” the lady solon said.
The House Quad-Comm’s investigation previously uncovered the involvement of key police officials such as former Philippine National Police (PNP) officer Royina Garma in alleged abuses linked to the war on drugs.
Roman also noted that while the ICC primarily focuses on high-profile figures, local authorities have the responsibility to hold lower-ranking officials accountable.
Beyond seeking justice for victims, Roman said the arrest of Duterte should send a strong message to government officials that the rule of law must prevail.
“Aside from obtaining justice for the victims, parang statement din to sa buong mundo na kailangan mahalaga na panaigin ang mga batas sa lahat ng kaso,” she said.
She stressed that as a civilized nation, the Philippines must demonstrate its commitment to justice and accountability.
