The ‘Three to Six Months’ Purge

Most of us believe that the human rights of the law-abiding citizens should be prioritized first over those who are not. But considering Article II, Section 11 of the 1987 Constitution of The Republic of the Philippines: “The State values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights.” That shall be a challenge to our dear law enforcers to be not involved in extra-judicial killings.

As of July 25, there are already 103 cases yet to be investigated. As we wake up every morning, another alleged criminal gets his epitaph and we are not doing anything about it. Did the law enforcers do these killings to abruptly close any drug-related cases? Or did the high-profile drug lords do these for their protection?

President Rodrigo Duterte once said that his Administration’s all-out war against drugs would be “bloody.” Our law enforcers have been trained to disarm the criminals if they resist. But most of the alleged criminals were like hogs killed in a slaughter house even if the accusations against them seem to be unbelievable. “Nanlaban kasi” is not the reason we always want to hear. Is it really necessary to practice that kind of law enforcement to have peace and order?

Our nation is in a state of peril - as if our law enforcers (and others) have given the right to purge whenever, whoever, and whatever they like. That is anti-poor, illegal, and inhumane. Rather, they should rehabilitate these drug-related criminals, preserve their dignity, and make them productive citizens.

Everyone deserves due process. The 1987 Constitution was designed in a way that gives rights to all citizens. Let the Judiciary branch dictate their fate as much as possible. Otherwise, ask the Legislative branch to amend the Constitution.