One too many innocent victims

Make no bones about it, the tragedy of Kian Loyd delos Santos’ death is the result of a flawed policy. That policy of summary killing which is espoused by no less than President Duterte himself. And unless the President himself ends this policy, no amount of investigation, suspension or termination of policemen involved can prevent the occurrence of another Kian case.

We have an elaborate justice system of due process that has been developed for so many years by so many societies around the world.

But a quick fix (extrajudicial killing) is all too tempting. It frees us from the hassle of a lengthy legal battle — the cost in time and money. But the most important temptation of EJK is the instant adulation of the equally impatient public. The dramatic way by which EJK appears to be able to solve our problems is blinding and the approval we shower upon our officials is addicting.

This mutual gratification fuels the vicious cycle of impunity. And because this is a flawed policy, it is just a matter of time before it strikes back. And for us and the parents of Kian, it struck too painfully.

If the President no longer receives gratification for these killings, he may just stop it.

Before it gets too close to our doorstep, let us make our opinion known.

President Duterte, stop the killings!

CRISTINO SANTOS, [email protected]