Hontiveros Fires Back at Estrada's Drug War Probe Joke: "This is Not a Game"
Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed her outrage on Wednesday after Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, also known as Yorme, recounted a lighthearted exchange with former Senator Jinggoy Estrada during a Senate hearing on the drug war. Estrada, who is currently facing corruption charges, allegedly joked about the Senate investigation, saying "I'll just throw myself in jail" if he were to be implicated.
Hontiveros, a vocal critic of the Duterte administration's drug war, was visibly angered by the lightheartedness of the exchange, particularly in the context of the ongoing investigation into the thousands of deaths allegedly linked to the campaign.
"This is not a game," Hontiveros declared during the hearing. "This is about people's lives. This is about families who have lost loved ones. This is about justice for victims of extrajudicial killings."
Hontiveros' Concerns About Estrada's Joke
Hontiveros highlighted the gravity of the Senate investigation, emphasizing that the probe is not just about political theatrics or a platform for jokes. The senator expressed concern that Estrada's humor undermined the seriousness of the investigation and disrespected the families who have suffered loss and pain due to the drug war.
"We are here to find the truth," she stated, "to hold accountable those responsible for the deaths and abuses. We are not here to play games. We are here to seek justice."
Hontiveros' response highlights the importance of taking seriously the issue of extrajudicial killings and the responsibility of those in power to ensure accountability and transparency. Her strong stance against Estrada's joke demonstrates her commitment to justice for the victims of the drug war and her commitment to holding those responsible accountable.
Public Reactions and the Importance of Accountability
The exchange between Hontiveros and Estrada has sparked widespread public debate, highlighting the sensitive nature of the drug war and the need for accountability. Many have expressed support for Hontiveros' strong stance, praising her for her commitment to justice and her willingness to challenge those who trivialize the issue.
Others, however, have questioned the severity of Hontiveros' reaction, arguing that Estrada's comment was simply a lighthearted joke. Despite differing opinions, the exchange has undoubtedly brought to the forefront the ongoing debate surrounding the drug war and its devastating impact on countless lives.
It remains to be seen what impact this exchange will have on the Senate investigation and its pursuit of justice. However, it serves as a reminder of the importance of taking the issue of extrajudicial killings seriously and of holding those responsible accountable for their actions.