As many say, Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, as it is the season of giving gifts and a having a good time with your family and loved ones, but not all will be having a merry Christmas.

 

    As the new head of state was put into power, things have changed. The Duterte administration is known for the implementation of the infamous war on drugs, which is supposed to eradicate the proliferating drug trade in our country. It became a newsmaker, but more on a negative note.

     About 14,000 deaths have been recorded on the war on drugs. These are more than statistics. More than being drug personalities, they are victims of their fate, being poor and unprivileged, some even are not really involved to the drug trade. They have families. They are fathers, mothers, and breadwinners. They are youth with big dreams. They are humans. This Christmas will never be the same for the families and loved ones of the victims of the war on drugs.

 

     While the true perpetrators and their confidantes are still living freely and will be celebrating their Christmas merrily, the families of the victims will be having a sad Christmas because of their loss and a more uncertain future that is waiting for them.

 

     Let this season be a reminder to everyone to give love and respect to all. There should be more inclusive and safe spaces for those people that are victims of the drug trade. There is always a reason on why they are into it. The society should look this issue in a more progressive perspective. Drug addiction should not be seen as a criminal liability but as a public health issue. The discourses about drugs should be more encouraged to raise more awareness on the issues revolving around it. The government should also see the peripherals of the issue on the drug trade. The true perpetrators should be held accountable, and provide better alternatives to the victims of the drug trade, most especially to the poor and unprivileged. Due process under the rule of law and the fundamental rights of every person should be upheld.

 

      May more lives and families will celebrate a Christmas free from fear and uncertainty.