Philippines: Lasting Harm to Children from ‘Drug War’

A new report by Human Rights Watch, titled 'Our Happy Family Is Gone', details the devastating impact of the Philippines' 'war on drugs' on children. Thousands have endured lasting physical, emotional, and economic suffering after their parents or guardians were killed. Children experience psychological distress, economic hardship, and increased poverty, often forcing them to leave school or work. Some face bullying and rejection, even ending up homeless, due to the stigma associated with 'drug war' victims.

Human Rights Watch urges the United Nations Human Rights Council to support an independent international investigation into the 'drug war' killings, including those affecting children. The report highlights the government's failure to provide adequate support to these children, leaving assistance largely to religious and community groups. The International Criminal Court has already opened a preliminary examination into complaints against President Duterte, which led to the Philippines withdrawing from the court.

The report includes testimonies from children and families. Jennifer M. recounted her anger and distress after witnessing the police kill her father. Robert A. described becoming a 'father' to his siblings after his own father was killed, forcing him to work as a garbage collector. His sister, Karla A., expressed the profound loss, stating, 'Our happy family is gone.' Randy delos Santos, uncle of 17-year-old Kian delos Santos, noted that CCTV footage was crucial in revealing the truth about his nephew's death, suggesting many similar cases might go unpunished without evidence.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency reported 5,601 drug suspects died in police operations between July 2016 and January 2020, with police claiming they fought back. This figure excludes thousands killed by unidentified gunmen often linked to police. Children's rights advocates have documented at least 101 children extrajudicially executed or killed as bystanders. The Duterte administration lacks a specific program to address the needs of children affected by the violence, reinforcing the need for international intervention to protect a generation of Filipino children.