Pubdate: Tue, 09 Aug 2016
Source: Sun.Star Baguio (Philippines)
Copyright: 2016, Sunstar
Contact:  http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/bag/2005/02/27/index.html
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1942

DISREGARDING CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS

THERE is a growing sentiment after two Cordillerans were included in 
the list of narco - politicians and judges by President Rodrigo 
Duterte who have contributed and benefitted from the drug menace.

Included in the list are former Langiden, Abra mayor Felix Castillo 
and Baguio City Regional Trial Court Branch 61 Judge Antonio Reyes.

According to reports, Castillo has already surrendered to local 
authorities while Reyes has instead decided to keep mum on his involvement.

It is worth praising the government's resolve in pursuing its 
anti-drug campaign, particularly in bringing to justice alleged 
narco-politicians, judges and bad cops who have contributed and/ or 
benefitted from the drug menace.

But many are raising questions and concerns on how this war is being 
waged, especially on the latest list made public by President Duterte.

Some camps ask if the list is a result of judicial case build-ups and 
if it is backed up by sufficient evidence that can stand the scrutiny 
of our courts. More questions, it seems rather than answers on how 
the president came up with the list as it might set a dangerous 
precedent which may also violate the constitutional rights of the 
accused who have not yet been charged in court.

Does this mean our current government is disregarding the foundation 
of the judicial system and respect for individual liberties and 
rights, where one is presumed innocent until proven guilty? Following 
the signing of an Executive Order on the Freedom of Information, it 
seems the current administration has used its power to access the 
information which merited the inclusion of the said public officials 
in the list.

While the President's list may be motivated by good intentions, it 
preempts the court's judgment and tears at the very fabric of our democracy.

Worse, it might only serve the interests of the very drug lords that 
this crackdown is directed at, such as the example of Mexico where, 
ironically, the main beneficiaries of a peace and order-centric war 
on drugs are criminal organizations.
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