Families and relatives of victims of the Duterte administration’s “war on drugs” gathered for a healing Mass at the Dambana ng Paghilom in La Loma Cemetery, Caloocan City, on October 28, ahead of All Saints’ Day.
Led by Ramon Magsaysay Awardee Fr. Flavie Villanueva, SVD, and Fr. Allan Bondoc, SVD, the solemn gathering brought together 111 families who continue to seek truth and justice for their slain loved ones.
The “Misa ng Paghilom” has become a yearly tradition of remembrance and solidarity for those left behind by extrajudicial killings.
This year’s commemoration took place just days after the International Criminal Court dismissed former president Rodrigo Duterte’s appeal questioning its jurisdiction over crimes against humanity linked to his bloody anti-drug campaign.
As candles flickered beside the memorial tombs, families prayed not only for the souls of the departed but also for healing, accountability, and the hope that justice will finally prevail.
All photos by Jire Carreon
