Former President Rodrigo Duterte stated he is solely accountable for the “successes and shortcomings” of his administration’s war on drugs, expressing full legal responsibility for the controversial campaign that spanned his term. Speaking at the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on October 28, Duterte asserted, “I and I alone take full legal responsibility sa lahat ng nagawa ng mga pulis pursuant to my order. Ako ang managot at ako ang makulong, ‘wag ‘yung pulis na sumunod sa order ko, kawawa naman nagtatrabaho lang.”
Launched in 2016, Duterte’s anti-drug initiative aimed to curb illegal drug activity in the Philippines. This aggressive campaign, marked by widespread police operations, saw over 6,000 documented deaths according to official data. However, human rights groups suggest the toll may be far higher, estimating as many as 30,000 deaths, including those attributed to alleged extrajudicial actions by vigilante groups reportedly acting with tacit support from law enforcement.
Critics, including international human rights organizations, have condemned the campaign for bypassing legal processes and due diligence, citing reports of evidence manipulation by police forces, who allegedly planted drugs or weapons on victims. This campaign’s aftermath has also led to severe overcrowding in Philippine prisons, following mass arrests and prolonged detentions.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has since opened an investigation into potential crimes against humanity linked to Duterte’s war on drugs. Despite criticism, Duterte maintained his stance, asserting that the campaign was essential to prevent the Philippines from becoming a “narco-state.” He has also urged the current administration to continue anti-drug measures, emphasizing preventive approaches and rehabilitation for sustainable impact.
