Blog
Since taking office on June 30, 2016, Former President Rodrigo Duterte has led a “war on drugs” that has resulted in the deaths of over 6,252 Filipinos in police anti-drug operations as of May 2022. Including vigilante-style killings, human rights groups estimated the death toll at 27,000 to 30,000, with a majority of the victims being impoverished residents. Most of these killings have been attributed to the Philippine National Police. Duterte and other senior officials have openly encouraged and endorsed these actions, driving a campaign that constitute crimes against humanity. This rhetoric and policy approach have normalized violence and created a culture of impunity in the Philippines.
Christian Zionism is a theological and political movement that holds a belief in the biblical prophecy of the return of the Jews to the Land of Israel and the establishment of the State of Israel. This movement often distorts biblical passages, particularly from the Old Testament, as prophetic to the modern state of Israel to justify their political views. This interpretation often involves the belief that Christians must support Israel. Christian Zionists see the return of the Jews to the Land of Israel as a key prophetic fulfillment, a necessary precursor to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Many Christian Zionists are staunch supporters of Israel and often advocate for policies that align with the Israeli government’s policies.
The HIV epidemic in the Philippines remains a significant public health challenge, driven by various social, economic, and cultural factors. Despite recent progress in prevention, treatment, and awareness efforts, the rapid rise in new infections calls for urgent and sustained action. The country's response must continue to prioritize expanding access to critical services such as condoms, PrEP, and antiretroviral therapy while also addressing the underlying issues of stigma, discrimination, and limited healthcare infrastructure.