An organization of human rights lawyers denounced the recognition given to former President Rodrigo Duterte by the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Davao chapter, calling it an insult to thousands killed in the government’s anti-drug campaign.
Jojo Lacanilao, convener of the Concerned Lawyers for Liberties and the Duterte Panagutin Network, said honoring Duterte as a “Golden Pillar of Law” is “an embarrassment to the legal profession.”
“IBP Davao is an embarrassment to the legal profession by making this award and can make no justification for this unforced error. The only way they can rectify this wrong is to withdraw this award forthwith,” Lacanilao said.
A photo of the plaque, signed by IBP national president Allan Panolong, circulated on social media, showing the organization’s tribute to Duterte for his “50 years of distinguished and dedicated service in the legal profession, upholding the ideals of justice, integrity and the rule of law.”
Lacanilao criticized this recognition, arguing that Duterte “called for the killing of thousands without due process.” He also warned that the former president’s enduring influence remains dangerous, especially as he faces murder charges before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
“If a regional group of lawyers is still hoodwinked by the guile of the former President, it demonstrates that any idea of sending him home for temporary release from the ICC detention is a dangerous one,” he added.
Human rights advocate Carlos Conde likewise condemned the award, calling the move by Duterte’s supporters in Davao “bottomless.”
