Besides de Lima, no figureheads have emerged, perhaps giving further credence to the AFP’s claim that they are now dealing largely with NPA “stragglers” and “remnants,” whom committed soldiers are pursuing with all their might. If Asia’s longest-running communist insurgency does end under Marcos Jr.’s watch, that victory will not come after the peaceful surrender of (dead) rebel leaders—it will be drenched in blood.

Nineteen senators voted on Aug. 6 not to hold accountable Vice President Sara Duterte of her actions that violated the Constitution and public trust. Their betrayal cut so deeply on one’s sense of values and concept of citizenship.

Many are devastated by what they witnessed in the Senate on Wednesday. But in the same way that Escudero and Marcoleta showed the disdainful images of the Senate of the 20th Congress, the valiant stand of Hontiveros, Sotto, Lacson, Pangilinan and Aquino is a source of inspiration and hope for those who want to have a working and meaningful democracy in the country. Photos by Bullit Marquez for VERA Files.