"Genuine justice for those who lost their lives to the machinations of those who believe they are not covered by the rules of civilization."
Twelve years ago yesterday, 58 people lost their lives in a most gruesome and blatant manner in what has now become known as the Maguindanao Massacre.
The case against those responsible for the crime, committed with impunity and in broad daylight, was decided on by the court nearly two years ago, in December 2019. Justice, however, was neither swift nor complete. An entire decade of trial was marked by intimidation and attempts to silence witnesses, and by technicalities in the case. The suffering and grief of family members of the deceased were prolonged. And then, even with the court’s decision, not all of the accused were in the custody of authorities. Many of them remain free.
The Palace has vowed to pursue these fugitives and ensure they are held accountable for their participation in the massacre. How do we know, though, that this is not just another empty mouthful, something to pacify the people hungry for promises that are actually delivered? After all, weren’t we promised the eradication of corruption and freedom from drugs nearly six years ago? And aren’t we still waiting?
Today, we know that senseless killings remain. Some are committed under a pretense — for example, fighting back when arrested for drug-related accusations, or a personal dispute. Some are simply done with no attempt at an explanation. Apparently, there are those who do evil things just to show they can, or because they believe they can get away with it.
Tragically for their victims and for the rest of us, they really can.
In the runup to the elections, may we see through promises and posturing and elect only those who are keen on addressing impunity at its roots — by dramatically increasing the likelihood of arrest, prosecution, conviction and punishment. Nobody should deem himself or herself above the law, whatever the status in the community, however big the riches, however great the influence.
Let us continue to seek justice for those who perished in Maguindanao in 2009, and all those who lost their lives to the machinations of those who believe they are not covered by the rules of civilization.