In the wake of the controversial Duterte administration’s War on Drugs, the Philippine Congress faces a pivotal moment that could define its legacy and impact public trust. As it assumes its constitutional role in legislation and oversight, lawmakers must prioritize accountability over political grandstanding. The recent admission by former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte regarding failures in his administration’s anti-drug campaign has opened the door for Congress to step in and take decisive action.
The function of Congress is clear: to identify policy gaps and ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions. The War on Drugs has left a trail of devastation, and it is incumbent upon lawmakers to investigate the missteps that led to the erosion of civil liberties and the loss of thousands of lives. This is not merely a matter of political posturing; it is an urgent call to correct the course of governance and restore the faith of the Filipino people. However, as Congress embarks on this journey, there is a pressing need to avoid distractions that could polarize public opinion and complicate the dialogue surrounding these critical issues. Political gestures that serve only to divert attention from the real problems at hand risk diminishing the opportunity for genuine public engagement. The Filipino people deserve a Congress that is focused on substantive discussions rather than political theatrics. Duterte’s admissions have placed the ball squarely in Congress’s court. It is now their responsibility to file necessary legislative bills aimed at reforming the flawed policies of the past. Furthermore, if warranted, they must initiate criminal actions against public officials who failed in their duties, leading to the abuses and shortcomings of the War on Drugs.
The public has a right to know who is accountable for the suffering inflicted upon communities across the nation. Ultimately, it will be the courts that determine the legal implications of these failures. Yet, the path to justice begins with Congress taking proactive steps to ensure that investigations are thorough, transparent, and free from political manipulation. The Filipino people must be assured that these inquiries are not merely a smokescreen for political maneuvering but a genuine effort to seek the truth. Moreover, other pressing issues require Congressional attention. The controversy surrounding lotto winnings, failed flood control projects, and unaccounted expenses among congressional members must not be sidelined. The increasing cases of crime and the persistent problem of illegal drugs also demand serious legislative scrutiny. The Filipino people deserve clarity on these matters, as they directly impact their lives and communities.
In the end, it is the Filipino people who will decide the political future of the nation. They must be empowered with the truth and given the tools to engage with their government meaningfully. Congress has a responsibility not just to investigate but to educate and involve the public in discussions that shape their rights and responsibilities as citizens. As we look ahead, let us hope that this moment of reckoning is met with the seriousness it deserves. The time for accountability is now, and the Filipino people deserve nothing less.
