Ma. Gracia B.

Jacinto

11 Newton

Reaction Paper

The Chiong Murder Case: A Tale of Justice, Politics, and Media Sensationalism

The Chiong murder case is a widely known and controversial case that happened in the
Philippines in 1997. The case involved the kidnapping, rape, and murder of two sisters, Marijoy and
Jacqueline Chiong. Seven young men, known as the “Chiong 7,” were accused and convicted of the
crimes, with four of them being sentenced to death. However, the case was marred by allegations of
coercion, police brutality, and a flawed justice system. The documentary “Give Up Tomorrow” sheds
light on the case and its complexities, presenting a compelling argument for the innocence of the
accused and the corruption of the Philippine justice system.

As I watched the documentary, I couldn’t help but be reminded of concepts related to

justice, fairness, and human rights. The case highlights the dangers of a flawed justice system, where
police brutality, coerced confessions, and a lack of due process can lead to wrongful convictions and
grave miscarriages of justice. The documentary sheds light on the corrupt and flawed criminal justice
system in the Philippines. It exposes the how politics, power, and media influence can impact the justice
system, leading to a miscarriage of justice. The documentary highlights how the authorities mishandled
the investigation and prosecution of the case, leading to wrongful convictions and questionable trial.

Moreover, the Chiong murder case speaks to present-day problems and issues, particularly
those concerning the lack of accountability and transparency in government institutions. The
documentary exposes the deep-seated corruption in the Philippine justice system, with powerful
individuals manipulating the courts to protect their interests and advance their agendas, regardless of
the truth or the impact on people’s lives. The documentary also raises important questions about the
morality and ethics of the death penalty. The trial of the accused was marked by the debate on whether
to impose the death penalty on the accused or not.

One of the most poignant aspects of the documentary is how it portrays the impact of the
case on the elicited a range of emotions and thoughts, from anger and frustration to sadness and
empathy. It was heartbreaking to witness the anguish and despair of the families of the accused, who
were torn apart by the case, and the victims’ families, who were denied the justice and closure they
sought.

The material increased knowledge and understanding of the complexities and nuances of
the case, as well as the larger issues at play, such as class, race, and privilege. It challenged my
preconceived notions and stereotypes about crime and justice, and forced me to confront
uncomfortable truths about the flaws and limitations of our justice systems.

In terms of merit, “Give Up Tomorrow” is a well-crafted and compelling piece of

storytelling, with its use of interviews, archival footage, and reenactments effectively conveying the
drama and tension of the case. The film is also thorough and organized, presenting a coherent and
convincing argument for the innocence of the accused and the corruption of the justice system.

The documentary is a must-watch anyone interested in social justice, human rights, or legal
reform. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of due process, fairness, and the pursuit of
truth in any justice system. Ultimately, the Chiong murder case is not just a tragic story of injustice and
corruption, but a call to action for all of us to uphold and defend the values and principles that are the
foundation. It is a sobering reminder of the need for a fair and impartial justice system, and the
consequences of corruption and political influence on the pursuit justice.

In conclusion, the Chiong murder case, as depicted in the documentary “Give Up Tomorrow,”
is a powerful and thought-provoking example of the flaws and limitations of our justice systems. It
highlights the dangers of corruption, coercion, and a lack of accountability in government institutions,
and the importance of due process, fairness, and the pursuit of truth. The case serves as a call to action
for all of us to uphold and defend these values, and to work towards creating a more just and equitable
society.