Summary of "Duterte's Drug War (full documentary) | FRONTLINE"

The documentary "On the President's Orders" from FRONTLINE delves into the controversial and violent drug war initiated by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. It presents a stark portrayal of the campaign, which has been characterized by mass extra-judicial killings, often targeting the poor and marginalized communities. The film highlights the brutality of the government's approach, with Duterte openly encouraging police and vigilantes to kill suspected drug users and dealers, likening the situation to historical atrocities.

The documentary reveals the public's initial support for Duterte's aggressive tactics, which has recently begun to wane amid growing criticism over human rights abuses and police corruption. The narrative includes testimonies from police officers who express conflicting views about their roles in the violence, suggesting that while they are instructed to enforce the law, there are suspicions of police involvement in many of the killings.

The documentary also touches on the broader implications of the drug war, depicting it as a class struggle, where the poor disproportionately bear the brunt of the violence. It features various perspectives, including those of local officials and citizens who call for a reevaluation of the harsh measures being implemented. The film concludes with a grim reminder of the ongoing nature of the drug war, indicating that the violence is far from over.