Political rivalry in the Philippines is no joke. We have seen throughout the years how politicians in this country are willing to commit murder as an investment in a government position. As if twisting the dagger and pointing a gun at the innocent is the only way to get power.
What is unacceptable is when they tamper with democracy, human life, and press freedom for their greed and ambition.
14 years have passed since the infamous Ampatuan Massacre occurred, which became the buzz of the town that earned front-page headlines and spots in the media. Who could forget the unjust killings of 58 individuals–32 of which were journalists–in Maguindanao where some were crushed in their automobiles and others were buried carelessly in a shallow mountain grave?
It is regarded as the world's deadliest attack on the media, destroying not only democracy but also establishing a debilitating culture of impunity. Additionally, it marked the country's worst-ever politically-linked incident.
The victims' families' calls for justice were supposedly answered when Zandy Ampatuan, Andal Ampatuan Jr., and 26 others were found guilty of several charges of murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of release in 2019. The 14 cops who were accomplices were also condemned to 10 years and eight months of prison.
The decade-long struggle for justice for the massacre victims came to an end after three administrations. However, when we dwell about it, the events clearly indicate a harsh reality for the country.
Firstly, the system appears to be in disarray. Despite the conviction of certain Ampatuans, Sajid Ampatuan remains unapprehended and free, having been acquitted. Not only has he dodged justice, but he was also given the opportunity to be re-elected, despite countless corruption cases and his possible involvement in the killing.
Individuals linked with law violations should not be granted the privilege to seek office again or retain authority, especially when their records are tarnished. Furthermore, this disrespects the victims of these crimes, their families and their future constituents. The risk of perpetuating the cycle of abuse also persists as long as these individuals are granted another chance at authority.
Second, the legal proceedings were inadequate since they did not address the whole range of offenses committed during these incidents. Aside from mass murder, there is a noticeable lack of addressing other heinous crimes such as sexual harassment and violations of press freedom. The massacre extends beyond the loss of lives, it encompasses a broader range of offenses that also demand justice.
Finally, the justice system in the Philippines is meager and frustratingly slow, creating formidable impediments for those seeking recourse. Just as Andal Ampatuan, the mastermind of the killings, who evaded conviction when he died prior to incurring the sentence that he should have paid and suffered.
The families of the victims endured a decade-long wait for justice, a process that proved agonizingly slow despite the glaring evidence at hand. Prolonged delays highlighted the critical need for systemic changes to establish a more efficient, responsive and humane legal system.
While the conviction seems to be a victory in the ongoing battle against impunity, the reality is that we remain far from the finish line. As cliche as it sounds, getting justice should not be that slow. The price of truth should prevail faster for true justice to be served.
As we commemorate the 14th year of the Ampatuan Massacre, let us remind ourselves that this is not just about the impunity and violations of journalistic freedom in our country. It also serves as a stark reminder that our justice system is in dire need of change and reform as true justice should not be served after a tiring decade of battle.
In a country brimming with cruelty, politicians should refrain from actions that could make it more frightening for its citizens. We should learn from our history. Political rivalry should not be a battle that results in bloodshed and indemnity. Because taking human lives and violating press freedom for the sake of power only results in a long battle between justice and impunity.
Article: Kent Merrie Jade Mejares
Cartoon: Jeohan Samuel Aquino
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