Duterte's Critic Detained: A Blow to Human Rights in the Philippines
Background: De Lima's Role in the Anti-Drug War Campaign
Senator Leila De Lima, a fierce critic of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's drug war, has been detained since 2017 on drug-related charges. De Lima, a former Justice Secretary, led the Senate probe into the killings that have occurred during Duterte's anti-drug campaign.
Senate President Implications
The Senate president, Franklin Drilon, is the third highest official in the Philippines and the second in line of succession to the presidency. Drilon has expressed concern about the drug war killings and has urged the government to follow due process in its enforcement.
Succession and the President pro tempore
The President pro tempore of the Senate is the highest-ranking Senate member who is not the president or vice president. In the absence of the president and vice president, the President pro tempore assumes the presidency.
Zubiri's Succession Concerns
Senator Migz Zubiri, who was elected President pro tempore in May 2016, has expressed concerns about the possibility of succession due to De Lima's detention and Duterte's declining health.
Escudero's Oath as Senate President
Former Senator Chiz Escudero took the oath of office as Senate President in July 2022, following Zubiri's resignation. Escudero, who replaced Drilon, is expected to play a key role in the ongoing discussion about the drug war and its implications for human rights.
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