PAMANTASAN NG LUNGSOD NG MAYNILA
General Luna St., Cor. Muralla St. Intramuros, Manila, Philippines
COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES, ARTS, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
__________________________________________________________________________________
Denise Ingrid C. Centeno ETH 0008-26
BA Communication 2-1 02/11/2025
ASSIGNMENT
1. Look for a newspaper article that tackles an ethical issue.
Consider the following questions:
a. What makes this a matter of ethics?
b. What is your own ethical judgement of this case?
c. What are your reasons for this judgement?
TOPIC: Extrajudicial Killings
Is EJK OK?
By: Edilberto C. de Jesus
Philippine Daily Inquirer
November 11, 2017
Article Link: [Link]
a. What makes this a matter of ethics?
The news of extrajudicial killings in the Philippines casts a long shadow
over the nation, raising profound ethical dilemmas that challenge the very
foundations of a just and humane society. This practice, often associated
with campaigns against crime and drugs, transcends mere legal
violations; it strikes at the core of fundamental human rights and
principles of justice, demanding careful ethical scrutiny.
At the heart of the matter lies the sanctity of human life. Extrajudicial
killings, by their very nature, involve the taking of a life outside the
established legal processes. This act represents a violation of the most
basic human right – the right to life. This blatant disregard for human life
clashes sharply with ethical principles held across cultures and religions.
Many faiths, including Christianity, which holds a strong influence in the
Philippines, consider human life sacred. The biblical commandment, "You
shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13), underscores the gravity of taking a
human life unjustly. Extrajudicial killings, therefore, represent not only a
legal transgression but also a profound moral failing.
PAMANTASAN NG LUNGSOD NG MAYNILA
General Luna St., Cor. Muralla St. Intramuros, Manila, Philippines
COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES, ARTS, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
__________________________________________________________________________________
The issue of extrajudicial killings in the Philippines is a deeply troubling
ethical matter. It violates fundamental human rights, undermines the rule
of law, abuses power, and inflicts immense suffering. These killings
represent a profound moral failing and a grave challenge to the principles
of justice, fairness, and the inherent dignity of every human being.
Addressing this issue requires a commitment to upholding the rule of law,
ensuring accountability for perpetrators, and promoting a culture that
values human life and respects fundamental rights.
b. What is your own ethical judgement of this case?
The ethical judgment regarding extrajudicial killings in the Philippines is
clear and inescapable: they are morally wrong. They violate fundamental
human rights, undermine the rule of law, abuse power, and betray the
principles of justice and human dignity. Scripture warns against the abuse
of power, reminding us, "Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to
the poor or favoritism to the rich. Judge them fairly" (Leviticus 19:15).
Extrajudicial killings, often targeting the most vulnerable and
marginalized members of society, represent a gross perversion of justice
and a blatant disregard for the ethical responsibilities of those in
authority. From both a secular ethical perspective and a religious
perspective informed by scripture, these killings are an affront to our
shared humanity and a grave transgression against the principles of
justice and compassion. The ethical imperative is clear: we must
condemn these acts of violence, demand accountability for those
responsible, and work tirelessly to uphold the rule of law and protect the
fundamental rights of all.
c. What are your reasons for this judgement?
Extrajudicial killings in the Philippines are morally wrong. They violate the
fundamental right to life, undermine the rule of law, and abuse power.
Scriptural teachings, such as "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13) and
the call for impartial justice in Leviticus 19:15, condemn these acts.
Targeting the vulnerable, these killings betray justice and compassion.
While some claim necessity in fighting crime, the ends do not justify these
means. They create fear and impunity, not solutions. The ethical
imperative demands condemnation, accountability, and upholding the rule
of law to protect human rights.
PAMANTASAN NG LUNGSOD NG MAYNILA
General Luna St., Cor. Muralla St. Intramuros, Manila, Philippines
COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES, ARTS, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
__________________________________________________________________________________
2. Brainstorm and come up with a list of common Filipino
values. Consider the strengths, and weaknesses of these.
COMMON FILIPINO STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES
VALUES
• Can lead to a lack of
• Enables Filipinos to adjust assertiveness and
to changing difficulty saying "no."
circumstances. • May result in
Adaptability and
• Promotes cooperation and compromising personal
Flexibility (Pakikisama)
teamwork. values and beliefs.
• Facilitates smooth • Can hinder innovation
interpersonal relationships and progress due to
resistance to change.
• Drives people to strive for
success and overcome • Can lead to being
challenges. neglectful of other
• Promotes perseverance aspects of life.
Hard Work and Resilience
and determination. • May result in burnout
(Sipag at Tiyaga)
• Contributes to economic and stress-related
growth and personal illnesses.
achievement.
• Creates a welcoming and
friendly atmosphere for • May lead to being taken
visitors. advantage of by others.
• Shows generosity and • Can blur boundaries and
Hospitality
willingness to share. create expectations of
(Pagkamagalang)
• Fosters positive reciprocity.
relationships with people
from different
backgrounds.
• Can be exploitative
• Promotes reciprocity
Utang na Loob (Debt of • Creates obligation
• Strengthens relationships
Gratitude) • Hinders saying "no.”
• Encourages kindnes
