THE SUPREME Court order for the Solicitor General to submit police reports for persons killed in drug-related police operations as well as deaths under investigation is most welcome. For human rights advocates and families affected by drug-related killings, these reports may contain crucial information for families and communities.
Often in spite of their fear, only the most courageous families have asserted their right to obtain copies of police reports pertaining to their loved one’s death. Many families still have very little information. Even more, the perception of authoritarian rule by Philippine National Police units leaves many feeling hopeless and helpless in their effort to obtain justice for killings allegedly related to drugs.
The Supreme Court should remain firm in obtaining these records. The strength of democracy in our nation requires that checks and balances between branches of government promote the welfare of all Filipinos, but especially the poor citizens of our country. With the onslaught of drug-related killings, suspicions on the regularity of police operations are expected. Such will be given proper perspective through access to the relevant data on the killings. Even more, deaths under investigation deserve attention and such reports can lay bare possible suspects and patterns.
Access to available information will be significant in enabling families and human rights advocates to analyze what has been happening in their areas. This can further capacitate them to act for the common welfare of their communities.
Given the notoriety of impunity in the Philippines, police report accessibility should be non-negotiable. Police operatives who conduct themselves in accordance with the rule of law have nothing to fear. However, access to information is essential for deconstructing the fear that currently grips many poor communities.
We must hold accountable Filipinos who have been allured by or have fallen victim to illegal drugs. The courts should be strong in upholding due process and promoting rule of law, especially in going after drug lords and syndicate kingpins as well as those who protect them. Punishing small-time sellers and drug users through unprovoked street executions is not only criminal but wholly immoral. Allowing state forces to engage such extrajudicial actions only complicates an already difficult social problem.
