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Philippine Court Upholds Murder Convictions in Drug War Case

12/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Philippine Supreme Court upheld murder convictions of Arnel Oares, Jeremias Pereda, and Jerwin Cruz for the 2017 killing of Kian delos Santos during an anti-drug operation.
The decision was made public on December 25, 2025.
The three defendants were each sentenced to 40 years in prison and must pay 275,000 pesos (US$4,700) to the victim's family, a ruling seen as a significant affirmation amid Duterte's war on drugs.

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Story summary

The Philippine Supreme Court upheld murder convictions of Arnel Oares, Jeremias Pereda, and Jerwin Cruz for the 2017 killing of Kian delos Santos during an anti-drug operation.
The decision was made public on December 25, 2025.
The three defendants were each sentenced to 40 years in prison and must pay 275,000 pesos (US$4,700) to the victim's family, a ruling seen as a significant affirmation amid Duterte's war on drugs.