Families of victims from the Philippine drug war have faced organized online harassment following Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest. They are urging investigations from law enforcement to hold the perpetrators accountable. Advocates like Sheerah Escudero and Kristina Conti seek to expose false narratives and protect victims’ credibility amid the ongoing legal proceedings against Duterte.
Families of victims from the Philippine drug war have reported being targeted by a coordinated campaign of online harassment, prompting them to request investigations from law enforcement authorities. This appeal comes in the wake of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest on March 11 and subsequent transfer to the International Criminal Court for trial. One victim, Sheerah Escudero, described the online harassment she faces, including accusations of drug use and dishonesty regarding her brother’s murder in 2017.
Katherine Panguban, representing Escudero and other families, highlighted the severe online intimidation endured by them, as they have been labeled as “liars” and “fake victims”. Escudero’s own experiences include an influx of derogatory comments and messages on her social media, which tarnish her attempts to seek justice. Furthermore, she and attorney Kristina Conti, also targeted online, are urging the National Bureau of Investigation to identify those behind these social media attacks.
Conti articulated that the intent behind these tactics is to undermine the credibility of the families advocating for justice. The victims’ advocates have expressed hope that the NBI can successfully identify and hold accountable those responsible for this malicious online behavior. Additionally, the social media landscape has been saturated with false narratives, portraying Duterte’s arrest as “kidnapping” and promoting him through paid advertisements.
Duterte, who governed the Philippines from 2016 to 2022, faces accusations of crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s anti-drug campaign, which has resulted in numerous fatalities. As he awaits trial, he asserts his accountability regarding the violent policies implemented during his presidency.
The families of Philippine drug war victims are courageously confronting online harassment as they seek justice for their loved ones. With a call for investigation by law enforcement agencies, they aim to expose the individuals behind these malicious attacks and combat disinformation. The ongoing legal proceedings against former President Duterte highlight the broader implications of his administration’s controversial anti-drug policy and its effects on victims’ families.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
