Duterte to human rights critics: Why only PH?

FILE: President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, in his speech during the meeting with Filipinos residing in Vietnam at the Pulchra Resort in Da Nang City on November 9, 2017, relays the key points of his keynote address during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit. The President cited that while globalization has its benefits, it has somehow stunted the growth of some developing countries. He went on to suggest that highly-developed countries should give more opportunities to MSMEs especially from developing countries. (KARL NORMAN ALONZO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO)

President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday complained why human rights critics only target his ‘war on drugs’ when other countries have their own violations as well.

“Bakit ako lang (Why only me)? There are so many violations of human rights, including by the United States, including the continuous bombing in the Middle East killing civilians. Pati mga bata, eskuwelahan nila (Even schools of children),” the President pointed out to the media in Da Nang, Vietnam.

Duterte was asked on what the highlight of the ASEAN summit will be, and he enumerated the different concerns of other countries – which included human rights. He also cited bombings in America, France, and Russia.

On the subject, Duterte then proceeded on proposing, “We should call a summit. I will volunteer to make the Philippines the venue.”

He added that all victims of human rights violation are invited to come and air their ‘gripe or grievances.’ He said that all violations should be investigated by all governments ‘to protect all human rights for all human races.’

“Bakit pag-usapan natin ‘yung Pilipinas (Why will we talk about the Philippines)? What makes the death of people in the Philippines more important than the rest of the children in the world that were massacred and killed. ‘Di ba (Right)?” the President went on.

Reporters asked if he was serious with this idea, and he simply said that he will consult it first with the heads of states.

Duterte was also asked if the United Nations (UN) will be invited to monitor the said summit.

“I’m more comfortable with a panel of lawyers. Kasi maintindihan nila kaagad eh (For they will easily understand)… The legal implications… And maybe experts in the science of medicine and the destruction of the human body,” he answered.

During the media interview, the President once again mentioned Agnes Callamard, a special rapporteur of the UN Commission on Human Rights, whom he earlier threatened that he would slap.