Duterte’s arrest a step toward justice, providing relief to families affected by the controversial war on drugs, said Bishop Gerardo Alminaza of the Diocese of San Carlos.
The bishop described the former president’s arrest as a significant move toward holding those accountable for the alleged extrajudicial killings under the anti-drug campaign.
Alminaza called it a “clear sign of hope” after years of fear and violence that, according to him, plagued the country under Duterte’s administration.
“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,” said Alminaza.
He also reiterated the Diocese of San Carlos’ longstanding call to end the killings, citing his personal experiences witnessing the devastating effects of violence.
The bishop recalled offering prayers at the wake of Skyler Bladen Abatayo, a four-year-old boy who was killed by a stray bullet during a drug raid in Cebu City.
He also expressed sadness over those who continue to support Duterte’s violent campaign, saying that normalizing killings as a solution to drug-related issues is deeply troubling.
“It pains me to acknowledge that some among us continue to support former president Duterte’s campaign of violence, justifying the killings as a solution to the nation’s drug problem,” Alminaza added.
He urged the public to reevaluate their beliefs, reaffirm their commitment to valuing life, and stand against unjust solutions to the country’s problems.
Alminaza emphasized the critical role of the Church in being a voice against injustices and advocating for human dignity.