Duterte supporters harass drug war victims' families post-arrest

Families of victims from former President Rodrigo Duterte's drug war are facing harassment after his arrest. Since his surrender to the International Criminal Court (ICC) on March 12, some families have received threats from Duterte's supporters. This has made them step back from speaking publicly about their experiences. Duterte was arrested for charges related to his violent drug campaign, which has led to thousands of deaths. The families had hoped for justice but now feel scared to speak out. One woman named Tina shared how she has received hateful messages and feels unsafe even in her community. She had previously been vocal about seeking justice for her brother, but now she is avoiding media interviews. Another family member, Bridgette, whose son was killed in 2017, has also faced backlash. She has spoken out for years, demanding accountability for the drug war. Since Duterte's arrest, she has received more online harassment. Some messages insult her and question her grief over her son's death. The hostility reflects the ongoing challenges faced by families seeking justice. Many families are now retreating from public life to cope with the trauma and threats. A lawyer, Jonnah Morado, emphasized that those receiving threats can seek legal action. The ICC offers protection for witnesses, and local organizations are helping affected families with security protocols. The Commission on Human Rights in the Philippines has called for support to create a safer environment for these families. They stress the importance of protecting victims and encouraging them to pursue justice without fear.