Proof of life: Human remains and memory in the Philippine Drug War.

Abstract

This paper examines the aftermath of the Philippine government's anti-drug campaign under President Rodrigo Duterte, focusing on the impact on families of victims of extrajudicial killings (EJKs). Drawing on fieldwork conducted in Manila, the research explores how these families navigate loss and attempt to reclaim dignity and humanity for their loved ones. The study reveals the formation of a community of "necro-activists" comprising journalists, religious figures, and medical professionals who support victims' families in seeking justice and remembrance. Through interviews with photojournalists and victims' families. This paper highlights the transformative role of human remains in asserting the victims' agency beyond death. The research shows how forensic processes and religious rituals contribute to the reclamation of individual identities and challenge the state's dehumanizing narratives. By examining the evolving meanings of EJK victims' remains, this study sheds light on the broader socio-political implications of state violence and memory-making in the Philippines. The analysis situates this research within a global context of human rights and memory studies, drawing parallels with other regions affected by state-sponsored violence. Ultimately, this paper argues that the remains of EJK victims serve as powerful symbols that challenge state impunity and embody the resilience of communities seeking accountability and dignity amid pervasive violence.