Drug War Victims' Families Celebrate ICC Representation, Says Atty. Neri Colmenares
Families of drug war victims in the Philippines are reportedly overjoyed to finally have legal representation at the International Criminal Court (ICC), according to prominent human rights lawyer Atty. Neri Colmenares. This development follows the presentation by common legal representatives, led by Atty. Joel Butuyan, who detailed the grievances and suffering of victims from the bloody drug war during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Long-Awaited Hope for Accountability
In an interview with the ICC, Atty. Colmenares emphasized that the families feel a profound sense of relief and happiness. They have long awaited the opportunity to see the former president face charges at the ICC, a moment they have eagerly anticipated for years. Colmenares noted that this representation marks a critical step toward justice, allowing the victims' voices to be heard on an international platform.
The lawyer stressed that all allegations and cases against Duterte must be confirmed to enable each family to express their sentiments fully. This is particularly important for those willing to testify during the hearings, as it provides a chance for their stories to contribute to the legal proceedings.
Concerns Over Duterte's Potential Return
Atty. Colmenares also highlighted the families' opposition to any possible return of Duterte to the Philippines if his case is not confirmed. They fear that such a move would only exacerbate their suffering, potentially leading to further intimidation or harm. The families believe that accountability through the ICC is essential to prevent any recurrence of the violence and trauma they endured.
Strong Evidence Presented by Prosecutors
According to Colmenares, the Office of the Prosecutor has presented robust evidence in the case, while the defense has failed to provide sufficient counterarguments to support their claims. This imbalance strengthens the victims' position and underscores the urgency of the ICC's proceedings. The legal representative's role is crucial in ensuring that the victims' perspectives are adequately represented, challenging any attempts to downplay the severity of the drug war's impact.
The confirmation hearing is a pivotal moment for the drug war victims, as it could determine whether formal charges will proceed against Duterte. Families remain hopeful that this process will lead to long-overdue justice and closure, reinforcing the importance of international human rights mechanisms in addressing state-sponsored violence.
