Another list
Two-hundred and seven names are on the PDEA list of village officials allegedly involved in illegal drugs. Ninety barangay chairmen and 117 councilors. President Duterte himself ordered the list to be publicized. With the barangay elections coming up, this is probably his way of informing the public who among those running are probably involved in drugs. PDEA Chief Director General Aaron Aquino stressed that this is not a "hit list," merely a list of those whose names have been validated by different government and police agencies. He even claims the PNP was tasked to give protection, as the investigation continues to build up strong, airtight cases against them. Aquino added that there are still those being validated, who could be added to the list.
I wonder how many among you are shaking their heads, or raising their eyebrows? How many have surrendered to the PNP these past years, only to be killed by unknown assailants or assassins, with their heads wrapped in packaging tape, signs around their necks, and some even killed in their own homes? How many were killed, without any further investigation if they were truly involved in illegal drugs? It is no wonder why reaction to the list was fast and furious. Some people cried out, asking why their names were on the list. There are those who were furious, challenging authorities to administer drug tests on them and their families, along with lifestyle checks. Some admitted to being hooked on drugs in the past, but have claimed to being clean and rehabilitated. Some have blamed politics, accusing rival officials of having a hand in getting their names on the list. These are just some of the reactions after the list was publicized. Of course, there are those who seem to have made themselves scarce.
What would you do if you were on the list? I'm not at all surprised there are those now fearing for their lives. Reports of drug suspects being killed in police operations continue. The PNP chief may be new, but the bloody campaign against illegal drugs goes on. There are those who have criticized the publishing of the list, saying that the names have practically become targets. Should one just give up, specifically to PDEA? What does one need to do to prove that he or she is not involved in drugs but have been accused just the same? If truly involved in illegal drugs, is surrendering the best option? Perhaps, if only to prevent them from being dealt with by the still unknown assailants, or dare I say it, death squads. This administration just loves to have lists of this and that on hand. I have never seen a time when a piece of paper in the president's hands would cause fear and anxiety, especially after the names are read.
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