ON
← Back to feed
At first truth hearing, mother recounts PWD son’s death in Duterte’s drug war
PH🏛️ PoliticsLean Progressive3 days ago

At first truth hearing, mother recounts PWD son’s death in Duterte’s drug war

Luzviminda Siapo recounted the tragic death of her son Raymart during Duterte's drug war at the first public truth-telling session of the Philippine Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Raymart, 18, was falsely accused of selling marijuana and shot dead in 2017 in Navotas City. His death is part of a broader pattern of extrajudicial killings linked to Duterte's anti-drug campaign, which has resulted in thousands of reported deaths and human rights groups estimating a much higher toll. The commission seeks to document such cases and hold perpetrators accountable, as Duterte faces potential international legal action. Siapo expressed anguish over the lack of due process and alleged systemic violence, highlighting the personal and societal impact of the drug war.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed lawyer Christian Lel Saquilabon as the new undersecretary of the Department of Health, succeeding Dr. Emmie Liza “Molly” Perez-Chiong, who resigned in a courtesy move. The appointment was officially approved by Marcos on August 4, according to an internal document shared with Malacañang reporters. Saquilabon, a legal professional, joins the health sector amid ongoing administrative changes within the department. The transition follows the announcement earlier in the week that President Marcos had named former Philhealth chief Edwin Mercado as the new secretary of the Department of Health. Mercado replaces Dr. Jose “Brix” Pujalte Jr., who held the position since July 13, 2026. The change marks a shift in leadership within the health ministry, with Mercado bringing experience from his tenure at Philhealth, a government agency focused on health insurance coverage. Meanwhile, the Marcos administration continues to navigate complex political and economic challenges. In his latest vlog, President Marcos acknowledged that much work remains to be done to fulfill the promises outlined during his recent State of the Nation Address. He emphasized that several critical issues were omitted from the speech, which he intended to serve as a roadmap for governance. In addition to personnel changes, the administration is preparing for its final major fiscal policy decision before the 2028 elections. The Department of Budget and Management has submitted the proposed P7.2-trillion National Expenditure Program for 2027 to President Marcos. The plan will be formally presented to Congress on August 11, marking a crucial step in shaping the nation's financial priorities for the coming year. The administration is also dealing with legal matters, including the pending decision on the extradition request for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy. The U.S. authorities have charged Quiboloy with multiple crimes, and the Philippine government is expected to finalize its stance on the matter within the next few weeks. The outcome of this case could have broader implications for religious freedom and international cooperation. Other developments include the ongoing investigation into alleged corruption linked to former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. The Sandiganbayan has summoned former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan to provide testimony in the case, which aims to uncover potential misconduct related to infrastructure projects. These legal actions reflect the administration’s efforts to address graft and ensure accountability among public officials. Natural disasters continue to impact the country, with the Department of Education reporting damage to over 4,000 classrooms nationwide due to Tropical Storm Maymay and the southwest monsoon. The situation highlights the need for continued investment in disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience. Energy providers are also adjusting services, with Meralco announcing a slight reduction in electricity rates for August. Customers can expect lower bills as the utility implements a P9.5 billion refund ordered by the Energy Regulatory Commission. Fuel prices are also set for a further decrease beginning on August 11, providing some relief to consumers. These developments underscore the multifaceted nature of governance, encompassing both domestic administration and external relations. As the Marcos administration moves forward, the focus remains on balancing economic stability, legal accountability, and social welfare.

4 reports

Rappler logoRapplerIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 707 days ago
At first truth hearing, mother recounts PWD son’s death in Duterte’s drug war

Luzviminda Siapo recounted the tragic death of her son Raymart during Duterte's drug war at the first public truth-telling session of the Philippine Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Raymart, 18, was falsely accused of selling marijuana and shot dead in 2017 in Navotas City. His death is part of a broader pattern of extrajudicial killings linked to Duterte's anti-drug campaign, which has resulted in thousands of reported deaths and human rights groups estimating a much higher toll. The commission seeks to document such cases and hold perpetrators accountable, as Duterte faces potential international legal action. Siapo expressed anguish over the lack of due process and alleged systemic violence, highlighting the personal and societal impact of the drug war.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the drug war as a systemic issue with severe human rights violations, emphasizing the suffering of families like Siapo's and criticizing the lack of due process. While it presents facts objectively, the focus on victim narratives and criticism of Duterte's policies aligns with a左翼

Why factuality (85): The article provides detailed information about Luzviminda Siapo recounting her son Raymart's death, including the date, location, and circumstances. It references the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and mentions estimated death tolls, which are commonly cited in reputable sources. The inclusion

Why objectivity (70): While the article shares a deeply personal and emotional story, it maintains a respectful tone and does not overtly take sides. However, by focusing on a single case, it may give more weight to individual experiences than to broader systemic issues, potentially skewing the reader's understanding.

GMA News Online logoGMA News OnlineIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 653 days ago
ICC prosecution says 2,279 items of evidence vs. Rodrigo Duterte 'incriminating'

The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecution has presented 2,279 pieces of evidence against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, which they describe as incriminating. The allegations focus on Duterte’s alleged role in orchestrating extrajudicial killings during his tenure as president. The evidence includes testimonies, documents, and other materials gathered by investigators. While the ICC has opened an investigation into potential crimes against humanity, Duterte has consistently denied the accusations and remains in office at the time of the report. The case highlights ongoing international scrutiny of human rights issues in the Philippines.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the ICC prosecution's actions as credible and significant, emphasizing the large volume of evidence against Duterte. It presents the legal proceedings as a serious matter with potential international implications, aligning with a more critical stance toward Duterte's leadership. S

Why factuality (85): The claim about 2,279 items of evidence being presented by the ICC against Duterte is mentioned but not independently verified. The article relies on the ICC's assertion without providing additional sources or context. However, this figure appears to align with cross-source consensus from other repo

Why objectivity (65): The article uses emotionally charged language such as 'incriminating' and presents the information in a way that emphasizes the gravity of the allegations against Duterte. This suggests a degree of bias rather than a strictly neutral reporting style.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 8010 days ago
PH Truth Commission on Duterte drug war to begin hearings Aug. 14

The Philippine Truth Commission has announced that it will conduct its first public 'truth-telling session' on August 14 to address alleged abuses that occurred during former President Rodrigo Duterte's drug war. The event will take place at the Pius Center in Manila and will be livestreamed on YouTube and Facebook. The commission aims to investigate and report on human rights violations linked to the drug war, which was marked by widespread killings and controversy. This initiative comes amid ongoing debates over accountability and justice for those affected by the policies implemented under Duterte's administration.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the establishment of the Philippine Truth Commission and its planned investigation into the drug war under Duterte. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorializing. The content remains neutral in tone, focusing on the

Why factuality (75): The article reports that the Philippine Truth Commission will hold its first public 'truth-telling session' on August 14, as per official announcements. While no primary source document was available, this information aligns with cross-source consensus from reputable news outlets covering the same e

Why objectivity (80): The article presents the event in a neutral tone, focusing on the facts of when, where, and how the truth-telling session will take place. It does not include subjective commentary or emotional language, maintaining an objective stance throughout.

GMA News Online logoGMA News OnlineIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 659 days ago
Truth Commission to present drug war report to government

A truth commission in the Philippines is set to present a report on the country's drug war to the government. The report aims to provide an assessment of the program's impact, including human rights concerns and operational effectiveness. The drug war, initiated under former President Duterte, has been marked by controversial tactics and significant casualties. The commission's findings could influence future policies and accountability measures related to law enforcement actions. The report highlights ongoing debates about the balance between security and civil liberties.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information about a government-related initiative without overtly endorsing or criticizing specific policies or actors. It focuses on the procedural aspect of the truth commission's report rather than taking a clear ideological stance. While the drug war is a politically charged

Why factuality (75): The article reports that the Truth Commission will present a drug war report to the government, which aligns with general knowledge about ongoing investigations into Duterte's drug war. However, without a primary source, factuality is judged based on cross-source consensus. The mention of specific n

Why objectivity (65): The article presents a personal account from a victim's family member, which can introduce bias. While it provides context about the drug war and the Truth Commission's role, it frames the narrative around a specific tragedy rather than presenting a balanced overview of the broader issue.

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories