The Legacy of Duterte’s War on Drugs

During Rodrigo Duterte’s presidential campaign eight years ago, he made a bold promise to crack down on drug users and traffickers by ordering the police and military to execute them, offering immunity for these killings. In the following months, a wave of brutal summary executions unfolded, with tens of thousands of people mercilessly gunned down by police officers and vigilantes.

Even after Mr. Duterte’s term ended two years ago, there has been minimal legal accountability for the mass killings. Only eight police officers have been sentenced to prison in connection with just four cases, with the latest verdict coming this month. While the number of killings has decreased since Duterte’s departure, a culture of violence and impunity still lingers in the Philippines.

In recent months, the legacy of Duterte’s so-called war on drugs has gained more official attention. Lawmakers are conducting public hearings to address the ongoing violence. Senior police officers and victims’ relatives have testified, sharing their harrowing experiences and pleading for justice.

When Mr. Duterte stepped down, his administration reported 6,252 deaths at the hands of security forces, all labeled as “drug suspects.” However, human rights organizations estimate the death toll to be around 30,000.