THE deaths of suspected drug perpetrators amid the government’s relentless war against illegal drugs may be a “necessary evil in pursuit of a greater good,” Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia said on Tuesday.
Pernia made the comment in a press briefing in Malacañang when asked about his thoughts on the impact of the spate of killings to foreign investors.
“The problem is the only ones interviewed by media are those who have been, whose husband or child has been killed. We should also try to get the view of others who approve of what’s happening and see it as really, maybe a necessary evil that has to happen in the pursuit of greater good… That’s a correct theological statement. It’s a by-product of something. Everything it’s a…it’s a self-defense thing, right? Self-defense is legitimate,” Pernia said.
“In fact, the crime rate has gone down substantially because of this fight against the drug menace. So, these are the kinds of things that we need to do to counter the perception from afar,” he added.
Pernia said the Philippine government must counter the “negative perception” of international observers on the administration’s bloody drive against drugs and make them understand Duterte’s peace and order agenda.
International bodies like the United Nations and governments including the United States have expressed alarm and called for adherence to law and protection of human rights over the increasing death toll in the drug war.
“I think foreigners have to be informed that if they come here and they behave, they didn’t do anything, they don’t do any misdeed, then they’re safe… If we have peace and order, which is the bedrock of the 10 points, the foundation of the 10 points, then the investment climate will definitely, substantially improve and many will be rushing to the Philippines to invest,” Pernia said.
“It’s better that there are no killings, of course. It’s better that there are no killings. And also, we have to realize that our justice system is dysfunctional. I think that should also be made known. The justices, the Supreme Court should know that. They have to shape up before we can really, you know, follow due process,” he added.
As of Aug. 22, the Inquirer’s “Kill List” notes 729 drug-related deaths since June 30 or after President Duterte took office.