Former President Rodrigo Duterte recently appeared before a Senate inquiry into his administration's anti-drug campaign. During the hearing on October 28, he maintained a defiant stance, asserting that his actions were necessary for the safety of the Filipino people. A 2017 Pulse Asia Research report indicated that 88% of Filipinos approved of the War on Drugs, reflecting public sentiment he leveraged throughout his presidency.
“I Did What I Had to Do”
Duterte defended his controversial policies, stating, “I did what I had to do.” He emphasized his mandate to protect the country, insisting, “Don’t question my policies because I offer no apologies, no excuses.” He viewed the anti-drug campaign as a moral imperative aimed at safeguarding innocent lives, asserting, “The war on illegal drugs is not about killing people. It’s about protecting the innocent and defenseless.” This justification was echoed during his addresses to Congress, where the legislature approved funding for the campaign, often receiving standing ovations.
Acknowledging the Toll of the Drug War
While Duterte defended his actions, the human cost of the anti-drug campaign remains contentious. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency reported over 6,252 deaths from police operations between July 2016 and May 2022, while a 2017 Office of the President report cited over 20,000 fatalities in the first 17 months of his presidency. This discrepancy fuels ongoing debates about the campaign's effectiveness and morality.
Families of victims have called for justice, contrasting Duterte’s portrayal of drug users as victims needing rehabilitation rather than criminals. He noted that many drug users surrendered after he took office, seeking help instead of criminalization.
The Path Forward: Rehabilitation vs. Repression
Duterte emphasized rehabilitation over punishment for drug addicts, viewing them as individuals needing medical assistance rather than criminals deserving harsh treatment. “I have always viewed people addicted to illegal drugs as victims and patients,” he said, advocating for their reintegration into society.
However, this perspective sharply contrasts with the experiences of families who have lost loved ones in the drug war. Outside the Senate, protesters gathered, calling for justice and an end to what they describe as a devastating campaign.
