On May 27, 2026, multisectoral groups in the Philippines officially launched the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to investigate the widespread killings associated with the war on drugs initiated by former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Aims of the Truth Commission
The commission, which operates independently from the government, is tasked with gathering testimonies from drug war survivors and their families. Its goal is to create a comprehensive record of the violence that resulted in nearly 30,000 deaths.
The Truth Commission was created to ensure that the stories of victims, survivors, and families are heard, verified, and preserved.
Raul Pangalangan, Chairperson
Led by former International Criminal Court judge Raul Pangalangan, the commission includes experts from various fields, such as forensics and psychosocial support.
Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, serving as an adviser, highlighted that funding for the commission will come from supportive sectors, including civil society and religious groups.
Impact on Future Investigations
The commission's findings may also be relevant to ongoing investigations related to Duterte's actions during his presidency, specifically in relation to his trial in The Hague on charges of crimes against humanity.
Pangalangan noted that while the commission's role is not to prosecute, its documentation could support both local and international inquiries into the drug war.
In a statement, Dr. Al Fuertes, another commissioner, emphasized the importance of restoring dignity to victims, asserting that their experiences will not be reduced to mere statistics.
As the commission embarks on its mission, it marks a significant step towards accountability and healing for countless families affected by the violent policies of the previous administration.