Politics · Philippines Bureau
Duterte family rhetoric fueling Philippines violence, lawyer argues
A prominent legal counselor said Wednesday that while not solely responsible, the Duterte family's public statements and conduct have intensified the nation's entrenched culture of violence.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Lawyer Lorna Kapunan said Vice President Sara Duterte and her family have contributed to worsening violent trends in Philippine society through their words and actions, though she acknowledged they are not the only factor driving the phenomenon.
Speaking during an online press briefing, Kapunan — serving as counsel for the prosecution — characterized the problem as systemic but pointed to the influence of high-profile figures in perpetuating attitudes that normalize violence.
The comments underscore ongoing concerns about the role of political leaders in shaping public discourse around security issues and law enforcement practices. The Philippines has faced persistent challenges with extrajudicial killings and gang-related violence in recent years.
Kapunan's remarks reflect broader debates within legal and civil society circles about governmental responsibility in addressing the nation's violence epidemic. Experts have cited multiple contributing factors including poverty, weak institutional oversight, and inadequate crime prevention strategies alongside rhetoric from public officials.