Partylist calls for humane strategy in anti-drug campaign

National

VIOLENCE, particularly in the context of the country’s anti-drug campaign, is not and will never be the solution, a returning national candidate said, stressing the need for compassion, economic opportunity, and moral governance just days before the midterm elections.

Former Manila mayor and congressman Lito Atienza, who is now first nominee of Buhay partylist, said that addressing drug addiction must involve a holistic, humane strategy, and not extrajudicial killings.

"Ako po ay nakikiusap sa lahat, huwag kayo mawalan ng pag-asa at kayo ay kumapit sa patalim—violence will never solve the problem, killing the drug users and pushers is not the solution," he said in a press conference in Cebu City on Wednesday, May 7.

He said that the country cannot rely on violence to solve the drug crisis and that a more patient approach is needed, including improving economic opportunities for affected communities.

Atienza, a devout Catholic, expressed commitment to pushing for policies that uphold the sanctity of life.

Additionally, he emphasized that pro-life measures will remain at the core of his party’s platform, and that politicians must be guided by moral values and a fear of God to prevent corruption and uphold integrity in governance.

His remarks came in light of recent allegations against Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, who is accused of physically assaulting and threatening a local businessman.

While Atienza did not name Duterte directly, he said such incidents reflect the urgent need for accountability and ethical leadership in public service.

Atienza was joined at the press conference by the group’s second and third nominees, also pro-life advocates Dr. Rene Bullecer and Carlos Sario.

Reiterating their campaign priorities, Atienza questioned why wealthy corporations continue to profit from drinking water.

He maintained that water should be accessible to all and that the public should only pay for the cost of distribution, not production.

He also vowed to advocate for annual cash benefits of P1 million for all Filipinos aged 101 and older, to be given every year for as long as they live.

He said this proposal honors centenarians and reflects their broader commitment to dignity and respect for life.

The veteran politician's comments on the drug war came amid renewed scrutiny of former president Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-narcotics campaign, which left at least 6,252 people officially reported killed in police operations from 2016 to 2022.

However, human rights groups estimate the actual number of extrajudicial killings may exceed 30,000, including those committed by vigilantes.

The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant against Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity in connection with the drug war, with proceedings ongoing in The Hague.(MyTVCebu)