Kathmandu— In Manila, Philippines, families impacted by the former President Rodrigo Duterte's controversial war on drugs began testifying before the Drug War Truth Commission this past Friday, seeking to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the deaths of their loved ones and pursue a measure of closure after years of silence. The commission, an independent civil society body launched in May, is investigating extrajudicial killings linked to the campaign which took place between 2016 and 2022, when Duterte was in power. While official government figures estimate around 6,000 deaths, rights groups believe the actual toll may range from 20,000 to 30,000. The first witness, Luzviminda Siapo, recounted the story of her son Raymart’s death, and others followed, hoping to uncover the truth behind these killings.

A Mother's Search for Answers

Luzviminda Siapo learned of her son Raymart’s death in 2017 through messages of condolence while working abroad in Kuwait. He was found dead with a gun and drugs nearby, authorities told her. Desperate to see her son one last time, Luzviminda pleaded with her employer for permission to return home, even offering to kiss their feet in exchange for leave. Upon her return to the Philippines, she discovered that a neighbor had accused Raymart of dealing cannabis. Witnesses reported he was taken by masked men who shot him after he was unable to run due to a physical disability.

Forensic Examination and Commission's Role

Forensic pathologist Raquel Fortun from the University of the Philippines has been examining remains as part of her work with the Drug War Truth Commission. She confirmed that Raymart was shot at close range. The commission, while not possessing prosecutorial power, aims to gather information that can be used by the government or the International Criminal Court (ICC). Duterte himself was arrested in March 2025 and is currently detained in The Hague facing trial for crimes against humanity related to the drug war.

A Case of Accountability

Randy delos Santos, whose nephew Kian delos Santos was killed by police in 2017, also attended Friday’s hearing. Unlike most cases, some officers involved in Kian's death were held accountable after security camera footage contradicted their claims of self-defense, showing them dragging the teen before shooting him. However, Randy believes they should have been convicted of additional crimes beyond murder, specifically for planting evidence – a gun and drugs – and hopes the Truth Commission will help bring this to light.

Seeking Due Process and Closure

Both Luzviminda and Randy share a common question: why were their loved ones killed without due process? Luzviminda expressed her belief that Raymart was innocent and deserved a fair trial if accused of any wrongdoing. While neither is seeking direct legal action, they both emphasize the importance of being heard as a step towards finding closure and ensuring others understand the devastating impact of the drug war.

The Truth Commission plans to continue holding public hearings over the coming months, providing a platform for victims’ families, witnesses, and survivors to share their experiences. The information gathered will be made available to relevant authorities, including the Philippine government and the ICC.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.