Philippines Sees Deadly Spike in Activist Kills Under Duterte
According to a new report by Global Witness, the Philippines has become the world’s deadliest country for land and environmental defenders, thanks in large part to President Rodrigo Duterte’s hard‑line stance.
What the Numbers Say
- Since Duterte took office in 2016, at least 113 defenders have been gunned down—an enormous jump from the 65 killed in the three years prior.
- Global Witness argues the real toll is probably quadruple this figure, hidden behind a veil of impunity.
- His controversial anti‑drug campaign, supposedly targeting “disorderly” elements, has reportedly left over 5,500 dealers or users dead.
Why This Matters
Duterte’s rhetoric is no mere political theater. In press talks, he has threatened to blast tribal schools and warned that those “pushing people toward communism” will “face the consequences.”
These words create a climate where powerful interests—mining, logging, and fruit plantations—feel emboldened to use violence to protect profits.
Case By Case
- 2017: A member of an environmental watchdog was shot while confiscating illegally cut teak destined for luxury hotels in Palawan, an ecological treasure.
- 2016: A community leader in Mindanao was ambushed after opposing a mining project linked to a business ally of Duterte.
- 2017: Security guards contracted by Del Monte turned on a tribal community building a pineapple farm on their land, killing one resident.
- 2016: Dole‑appointed guards destroyed the homes of indigenous people who claimed the banana plantations, shooting them as they were forced out.
Corporate Response
Del Monte Philippines insists it “actively protects the welfare of all stakeholders” in its supply chain. Dole, owned by Japan’s Itochu Corp, chose not to respond to the morning’s inquiries.
Bottom Line
These killings aren’t just tragic numbers—they’re a chilling reminder that when a leader’s words equip violence, that violence can turn into a lethal weapon for land and environmental defenders.
Global Witness’ report calls for a crackdown on the culture of impunity that so far shields both Duterte’s regime and the big corporate players behind these crimes.
