Former Bayan Muna Congressman Neri Colmenares welcomed the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) of the Philippine National Police (PNP), calling it a “significant step toward justice for the thousands of victims of extrajudicial killings and human rights violations under his administration.”
According to Senator Bong Go, Duterte is currently being transported to Villamor Air Base.
“Justice Through Perseverance and Struggle”
Colmenares, who also serves as co-counsel for the families of victims of Duterte’s controversial drug war, stressed that while the arrest was long overdue, it proves that justice can be achieved through persistent efforts.
“We have consistently called for accountability for the massive human rights violations committed during the Duterte administration, particularly the thousands of lives lost in the so-called ‘War on Drugs.’ This arrest is a welcome development and long overdue,” he said.
A long-time human rights advocate and staunch critic of Duterte, Colmenares emphasized that this arrest is only the beginning of a long legal battle.
“Sa wakas, mananagot na siya sa libu-libong buhay na nawala dahil sa kanyang madugong War on Drugs at iba pang human rights violations na nangyari sa ilalim ng kanyang administrasyon.”
(Finally, he will be held accountable for the thousands of lives lost due to his bloody War on Drugs and other human rights violations under his administration.)
Call for Fair and Comprehensive Justice
Colmenares reiterated that seeking justice is not about political vengeance but about holding those responsible accountable.
“For years, we have been calling for this moment—for Duterte to face the courts and answer for his crimes. The families of EJK victims have waited far too long for this day to come.”
He also underscored the need for a thorough and impartial legal process.
“Dapat masiguro na ang proseso ng pagbibigay hustisya ay magiging patas at komprehensibo. Hindi lang si Duterte ang dapat managot kundi pati ang lahat ng arkitekto at tagapagpatupad ng madugong polisiya na ito.”
(We must ensure that the justice process will be fair and comprehensive. Not only should Duterte be held accountable, but also all the architects and implementers of this bloody policy.”)
A Historic Moment for Human Rights
Colmenares called on the current administration to protect key witnesses and preserve crucial evidence in the cases against Duterte.
“This is a historic moment for human rights in the Philippines. After years of impunity, we are finally seeing concrete steps toward accountability. The road to full justice is still long, but this arrest is a significant milestone that gives hope to the thousands of families who lost their loved ones.”