29/05/2026
Advocates launch Truth Commission on EJK ahead of Duterte ICC trial
University President Fr. Daniel Franklin Pilario, CM, joined as a commissioner in the newly-launched Truth Commission on Extrajudicial Killings (EJK) during a press conference at Villa San Miguel in Mandaluyong City, last Wednesday.
The independent civilian-led body aims to establish a credible public record from the accounts of former President Duterte’s "War on Drugs" victims and affected families, recommending reforms and protective measures to prevent future similar abuses.
Human rights groups estimated 12,000 victims of anti-drug operations, mostly from the urban poor, prompting the International Criminal Court (ICC) to arrest Duterte for crimes against humanity.
Tasked to investigate these killings, Atty. Raul Pangalangan chairs the panel alongside trauma and peace studies expert Dr. Al Fuertes, forensic pathologist Dr. Raquel Barros del Rosario-Fortun, and human rights advocate Carlos Conde, with Cardinal Pablo "Ambo" David serving as adviser.
Meanwhile, Fr. Pilario emphasized the crucial role of theology in understanding the lives of EJK victims and restoring their freedom and dignity.
"Ito ata ang gamit ng Theology, para maituloy ang buhay nang may kahulugan kahit sa panahon ng victimization [and] to search for deeper human values that has been denied to them," he highlighted.
Former ICC Judge Pangalangan further explained the committee's goal of identifying institutional weaknesses and impunity that allowed perpetrators to commit systemic human rights violations during the anti-drugs campaign.
"The historical records show that this happened because everybody looked the other way and it is almost a conspiracy of silence among government entities," Judge Pangalangan asserted.
Moreover, the commission committed to conduct public hearings with protective measures for the witnesses and submit reports every six months to relevant bodies, including the National Police Commission (Napolcom), Congress, and the President.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) is set to begin its first status conference today, tackling preliminary matters related to Duterte's upcoming trial, including the official start date and the disclosure of evidence.
Written by: Dioney Nichole L. Verdad
Layout by: Jamea Rhoann L. Mones
