Rodrigo Duterte came to power with the winds of change. Many Philippines dreamed of the end of corruption, crime and illegal drug trade and Duterte promised just that. His war against drugs became a war against the poor civilian population.
– Moms and fathers have lost their children in a war that they have nothing to do; And they need justice, says indigenous activist Joan Carling.
On March 11, he was arrested on the order of the International Criminal Court (ICC), suspected of crime against humanity for murder in the Philippines in 2011 – 2019. Carling, who was previously designated as a terrorist by Dutertes Administration, points out that his policy has affected everyone who criticized the government.
– Those who are on the front line and stand up for human rights throw in prison and blame destruction.
She wants the ICC to bring in a broader evidence that also includes human rights violation.
The anti-terrorist law
Carling has been fighting for indigenous rights for over 30 years and she points out that indigenous peoples, women and activists have been persecuted under his rule and should be included in the ongoing ICC investigation.
– Including human rights violation in the investigation would send a strong signal to other leaders that human rights must be respected, she says.
Carling has also been Secretary General of Asia Indigenous People’s Pact (Aipp), a permanent member of the UN indigenous forum and supported campaigns against the expansion of mining and hydropower projects in indigenous peoples.
– We have suffered, leaders after leaders who have come to power and exploited their position for personal interests and punished poor people who cannot influence their situation.
She hopes that the investigation of his crime will create long -term change.
– This makes one believe that people see us, that the international community can contribute with justice and that violent deeds do not go unnoticed.