It seems like more and more countries are declaring a “War” on Drugs and illegal drug usage. Probably the first to do so was the United States in the 1980s to resounding failure but that seems, much like the harsh sentences given to marijuana dealers, not to deter other governments from doing so. The latest of these “warring” countries is the Philippines led by tough on crime President Rodrigo Duterte. President Duterte however has not come up with a catchy slogan to deter potential users, or started up a social program. He has given carte blanche to both police and potential vigilantes to basically murder anyone suspected of being a drug dealer and although not explicitly endorsing it he has said the Public “can kill criminals”. Understandably Human Rights groups are horrified by this as there is a strong possibility that innocents may be being targeted, so far over 500 suspected drug criminals have been killed without trial during the implementation of this “war”
This is not enough to stop the drug trade in the Philippines though and Duterte seems to know that based on his latest action. In the city of Davao, where he was once the tough on crime mayor as opposed to the tough on crime President he announced over 150 names of people he thinks are involved in the drug trade. These names include government officials, ranging from judges, congresspeople, and police officers, some of whom are retired. Those that are not retired, are facing suspensions and trials, and all are to surrender to PNP (Philippines National Police) custody or face a manhunt. Strangely enough, those named have not been charged with any specific crimes yet, although given the mandate one could reasonably assume charges are well on the way.
