Friday, May 30, 2008 Editorials: Amnesty International’s view
THE recent assessment of Amnesty International projects a grim picture of the human rights condition.
“There could be a surge in extrajudicial killings and forced disappearances in the Philippines this year unless the government effectively prosecutes the perpetrators.”
AI, of course, refers more likely to political cases rather than criminal ones.
But extrajudicial killings nowadays include criminal offenders.
Support
Killings of perpetrators of criminal acts, however, are turning into a thorny problem.
It can probably be termed “social killings” as distinguished from the political ones.
This is because of the possibility that these killings have the support of a silent sector deeply concerned with their own security, their need for peace, and survival.
Reaction
The recent robberies and murders in Metro Cebu and environs have, in fact, generated a terrifying reaction from Mayor Tomas Osmeña.
It is a response that, while recognizing the need to protect the innocent citizens from criminal elements in our midst, is tantamount to allowing law enforcers to shoot suspects not only to prevent a commission of a crime but also to place the rule of law in utter jeopardy.
Osmeña’s grant of rewards to off-duty law enforcers who can arrest or kill a robber is both an enticement and an incentive for the police.
Indeed, the spate of robberies and holdups that happened in Metro Cebu may have become a motivating factor for the return of summary executions of criminal offenders.
Denunciation
Consequently, the move of Mayor Osmeña, which on the surface anticipates AI’s prognosis, may invite dismay and denunciation from human rights advocates in Cebu.
But there is also the possibility of support from a silent majority of worried city residents.
The point at issue here is really survival, the matter of being able to live a secure life.
