Families of those slain during Duterte's regime express conflicting emotions over the former president's arrest, emblematic of their long quest for justice.
Former Philippine Leader Duterte Arrested, Sparkling Mixed Reactions
Former Philippine Leader Duterte Arrested, Sparkling Mixed Reactions
Rodrigo Duterte’s incarceration at the International Criminal Court brings a mix of hope and sorrow for the victims of his drug war.
In a historic turn of events, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on charges of crimes against humanity, igniting diverse reactions across the nation. For many Filipinos, especially those affected by his controversial war on drugs, his transfer to the International Criminal Court is seen as a pivotal moment in the fight for justice.
Among those eager for accountability are Emily Soriano and Isabelita Espinosa, two mothers whose lives were irrevocably altered by the tragic events of December 2016. On that fateful day, gunmen invaded their neighborhood, leading to the senseless slayings of seven residents, including three children. Both mothers lost their teenage sons: 15-year-old Angelito Soriano and 16-year-old Sonny Espinosa, who they assert were innocent.
The memories of that gruesome incident still haunt them. "It feels surreal that we might finally see accountability for the atrocities committed during the drug war," Soriano shared, reflecting the hopes of many who have long blamed Duterte for the extrajudicial killings during his presidency.
Espinosa, resolute in her pursuit of justice, said, “What matters to me now is that justice is served. We must not allow these butchers and tyrants to remain in power.” Their sentiments resonate with numerous families who have experienced similar tragedies as a result of Duterte’s policies.
While Duterte's arrest is celebrated by many as a step toward accountability, it also evokes mixed emotions among the victims' families—who are reminded not just of their losses, but also of a fight that continues for a better tomorrow.
Among those eager for accountability are Emily Soriano and Isabelita Espinosa, two mothers whose lives were irrevocably altered by the tragic events of December 2016. On that fateful day, gunmen invaded their neighborhood, leading to the senseless slayings of seven residents, including three children. Both mothers lost their teenage sons: 15-year-old Angelito Soriano and 16-year-old Sonny Espinosa, who they assert were innocent.
The memories of that gruesome incident still haunt them. "It feels surreal that we might finally see accountability for the atrocities committed during the drug war," Soriano shared, reflecting the hopes of many who have long blamed Duterte for the extrajudicial killings during his presidency.
Espinosa, resolute in her pursuit of justice, said, “What matters to me now is that justice is served. We must not allow these butchers and tyrants to remain in power.” Their sentiments resonate with numerous families who have experienced similar tragedies as a result of Duterte’s policies.
While Duterte's arrest is celebrated by many as a step toward accountability, it also evokes mixed emotions among the victims' families—who are reminded not just of their losses, but also of a fight that continues for a better tomorrow.
