Gito had been eagerly awaiting his return to his father’s house in Caloocan City in the Philippines. He had been living abroad and had not seen his family for months. But as he arrived on December 7, 2016, he never could have imagined the tragic events that would unfold before him.
As he entered the house, he was greeted by the warm embrace of his father. But their reunion was short-lived as three armed policemen barged in, grabbing his father and dragging him outside. Gito could only watch in horror as they shot his father multiple times, without any warning or reason. His father had raised his hands in surrender, but it made no difference to the officers.
This heart-wrenching incident is just one among many cases of extrajudicial killings that have plagued the Philippines in recent years. In the name of a so-called war on drugs, innocent lives are being taken without any regard for due process or human rights.
Gito’s father was a victim of this brutal and senseless practice. He was a hardworking man, a loving father, and a pillar of his community. His only “crime” was being falsely accused of being involved in the drug trade. But before he could even have a chance to defend himself, his life was taken away in a matter of seconds.
Gito shared his father’s story with IPS, a global news agency that focuses on issues of social justice and human rights. He spoke of the immense pain and anger he felt, not just for himself but for the countless other families who have lost loved ones in a similar manner.
The impact of these killings goes beyond the immediate family members. It reverberates throughout the community, instilling fear and a sense of helplessness. The very people who are supposed to protect and serve the citizens are the ones causing them harm.
The Philippine government has been heavily criticized for its inaction and at times, even condoning these extrajudicial killings. Despite international pressure, the killings continue to occur, with no signs of stopping.
But amidst all the darkness and despair, there are still glimmers of hope. Organizations and individuals are rising up to speak out against these atrocities and demand justice for the victims. Civil society groups, human rights advocates, and even ordinary citizens are joining forces to put an end to the bloodshed.
Gito himself has become a vocal advocate for justice, not just for his father but for all the victims of extrajudicial killings. He has found strength in his pain and is determined to make sure that his father’s death was not in vain.
The tragedy that befell Gito’s family is a stark reminder of the need for a society that upholds the rule of law and protects the rights of its citizens. It is a call for the Philippine government to uphold its duty to protect its people and hold those responsible for these killings accountable.
As we look back on this heartbreaking incident, let us not forget the countless other lives that have been lost. Let us stand in solidarity with the victims and their families and demand an end to this culture of violence and impunity.
Gito’s father may no longer be with us, but his legacy lives on through his son’s determination to seek justice. May his death serve as a wake-up call for the Philippine government to act in the interest of its people and put an end to these extrajudicial killings once and for all.
