Good People, Bad People

(This is the story of a drug addict. Names of persons and locations have been changed so as to protect the identities of those involved) 

Carlito was born out of wedlock. The son of a prominent member of Philippine society. Even though he was “outside” of grace, his father always looked out for his material needs and even wants. He grew up with is mother who belonged to an “old” family in their home town and the family or clan although not rich were also recognized as one of the influential clans in that town. His mother belonged in the social circles that mattered and was also well educated.

Carlito’s education was not found wanting. A kindergarten in one of the most exclusive gated communities in the country, grade school and high school ran by a large religious order and college in one of the top 3 Philippine educational institutions. There were no problems with grades. Carlito grew up knowing culture and the good things in life. He was also grounded in such a way that playmates as he was growing up consisted of children from all classes of society. Although being “angat” among the other children in the neighborhood came along with frictions but as they said, they are all kids with a couple of rough spots just like any other.

Even early on, he possessed multiple intelligences. Good at academics, going to NCAA games to cheer for his eventual school, musically endowed (piano and guitar oido) and good looks to boot!

But like in any other person, he also had a shadow life. In high school he discovered that he was bisexual.  

But in college, he had his own clique that included sons of prominent families also. But then again, Carlito was also a child of his community. He learned to do drugs.

At this time, he was already a professional. Given the opportunity, he went abroad to work. He wanted to find his place in the world as what was his potential. He excelled in his field and thrived abroad. But also, he was human. He wanted to have happiness that is not considered normal. He suffered betrayal in a relationship and then his downward spiral happened.

He got imprisoned abroad due to drug related offenses but was released and deported fortunately because of connections as was his birthright.

Unfortunately, his emotional and mental health was already affected and the use of Shabu further distorted his values. He was “rehabilitated” more than once but still the problem persisted and even worsened despite the efforts of friends and family.

Now, he is a shell of his former self. But he never committed any crime. He is a victim.

I ask, is it grounds for cardboard justice? Shall be be terminated with prejudice? Will his death solve the drug problem?

Is Carlito good or bad?