Not his fault

I'm still quite agitated at a number of people who think that protesting against extrajudicial killings is absurd. My inclination started after rash comments were said against students who publicly gave their stand. They said they were ridiculous and crazy, might as well send them home. Who in their right mind would suppress young minds from their constitutional right of expression?

While the truth of the proliferation of illegal drugs in our country is true, we cannot discount the fact that several innocent lives have been caught in the way. I don't question police operations as I have been covering them night and day. I have good faith in our cops giving them the benefit of the doubt that their operations are legitimate. I am much rather concerned at those who are killed in random by unidentified assailants.

About a week ago, a man onboard a jeepney was shot dead. The route happened to be one of those coming from a mall towards Gorordo Avenue, one that I would ride if I were to visit my college alma matter. It could have been me, or anyone. A gunman's miss could hit me or any other person who are not their target. When the damage is done, we can do nothing anymore.

It is true that one of the effects of illegal drugs is petty crimes. We see the decline after "Oplan Tokhang" and police operations that lead to the neutralization of those who are tagged as drug personalities. We are thankful for the efforts of the national government and their strong campaign against illegal drugs. The streets aren't that crowded as before, we see police mobiles roving around the city even up to the wee hours in the morning. But is it safe to stand alone under the moonlight? I don't know, a gunshot might just be heard out of nowhere.

Just recently, a kid was hit by a stray bullet after an unidentified gunman shot her grandfather. A young life ended for a choice she didn't make. She could have been a great teacher. I'm just saying, you know. But that's gone out the window, thanks to those who think killing would stop the problem.

And what's crazier are those saying that the Commission on Human Rights should accompany the police during their operations to prove that they are doing it within the bounds of the law. The police force has also been doing their best to eradicate the problem. Making them looked like the wrong person only makes things worse.

For one, it is not the president's fault that the illegal drug trade has seeped into the society. It has been there long time ago. It is also not his fault that some were shot dead by those in uniform. Somehow, by chance, they happen to be armed too given the circumstances are correct.

It is also not his fault that some secrets are out in the open. He wants what is for the best of this country.

Taking sides on this war is very crucial with everything that's going on. Every day is like a new page added to the book under the new administration. But at least a rather informed opinion is welcomed, unlike those solicited from the social media bandwagon. It takes effort to inform oneself, not a mere scroll of a newsfeed. People today should not just take issues from hindsight but with context.