A THOMASIAN bishop has called on supporters of former president Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs to reevaluate their stance and reaffirm their Catholic values.
In a statement on March 19, Bishop Gerardo Alminaza of San Carlos, Negros Occidental expressed concern over the belief of drug war supporters that killing is the solution to the country’s drug problem.
“It is deeply troubling that many remain unconvinced of the profound injustice perpetrated through these systematic killings, and that, tragically, former president Duterte’s actions garnered admiration from some,” Alminaza, a UST Central Seminary alumnus, said.
Duterte was ordered arrested by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on March 11 over alleged crimes against humanity, which sparked protests from pro-Duterte groups.
“They remain blinded by the false narrative that criminality and drug addiction can be eradicated through death and execution. I pray for them even as I challenge them to rethink their position as some have already done,” he said.
Alminaza said the Diocese of San Carlos welcomed the arrest of Duterte, describing it as an “initial step towards accountability.”
“Impunity has long gripped the Philippines. Former president Duterte’s penchant to kill and slaughter flourished under these conditions. Holding him accountable will be a warning to other leaders who want to unleash human rights violations in the future,” the prelate said.
The diocese has long been a staunch advocate against extrajudicial killings (EJK). Alminaza said he had “personally borne witness to the devastating consequences of this violence” after presiding over some funeral Masses of EJK victims.
“This development brings a measure of hope and solace to the thousands of families who lost their loved ones during the Duterte regime’s war on drugs and war on rights, a period marked by impunity and reward-driven killings,” he said.
Reiterating the Church’s belief in the sanctity of life, Alminaza said championing peace and justice must be pursued at all times.
“The Church must remain a powerful voice against injustice and any form of tyrannical solution to social problems. We must champion transformative solutions that address the root causes of the social ills plaguing our nation. We must resist the temptation to despair and fight against indifference,” he said.
Duterte is facing charges before the ICC due to his bloody war on drugs campaign that had left more than 6,000 dead, according to police records. But human rights groups estimate the number to be between 12,000 and 30,000.
His confirmation of charges hearing is set to begin on Sept. 23.
