The Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (PAHRA) hosted a powerful Facebook Live discussion on March 11, 2025, featuring the reactions of families of extrajudicial killing (EJK) victims to the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

 

During the live event, relatives of EJK victims shared their grief, struggles, and relentless pursuit of justice. Many expressed a sense of vindication over the ICC’s action, seeing it as a crucial step toward accountability for the thousands of killings under Duterte’s war on drugs.

 

"Matagal naming hinintay ang araw na ito. Hindi pa tapos ang laban, pero ang pagkilos ng ICC ay isang malaking hakbang para sa hustisya. Maswerte si Duterte may due process, sa mga mahal naming pinatay, wala," said Gabriela, not her real name, whose son and live in partner were killed in an alleged antidrug-related operation.

 

Another participant, Sarah, whose two children were victims of extrajudicial killing, stated, "Para sa mga pamilya namin na nawalan ng mahal sa buhay, hindi lang ito tungkol kay Duterte. Ito ay laban para sa lahat ng biktima ng madugong giyera kontra droga. Hindi na dapat maulit ito."

 

Human rights advocates also joined the discussion through the live comments, explaining the implications of the ICC warrant and the next steps in the pursuit of justice.

 

PAHRA emphasized that justice for victims of extrajudicial killings is long overdue. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the families of victims and ensuring that those responsible for grave human rights violations are held accountable.

"Huwag nating hayaang malungkot si Tatay Digong. Isama natin ang kaniyang mga kasabwat. Kung paano sila nagpakasasa sa kapangyarihan noon, dapat silang managot nang sama-sama ngayon. This fight is far from over," added Egay Cabalitan, PAHRA’s Secretary General.

The full discussion is available on PAHRA’s official Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/philippinehumanrights.org/videos/654481310444289

PAHRA invites the public to watch, engage, and stand in solidarity with the families of EJK victims in their fight for truth, justice, and accountability.