Former President Rodrigo Duterte has been invited to attend the House of Representatives Quad Committee hearing on extra-judicial killings (EJK) on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 9:30 AM. The hearing will be held at the People Center Building in Quezon City, where lawmakers are set to gather for a crucial discussion on the issue of EJKs during Duterte’s administration, particularly in connection to his controversial war on drugs.
Duterte’s presidency was marked by his relentless anti-drug campaign, which aimed to combat the spread of illegal drugs in the country. However, this campaign also led to numerous reports of extrajudicial killings, with several minors allegedly becoming victims. The issue of a reward system for law enforcement officers involved in the campaign has also come to light. It was claimed that police officers received incentives for arresting or killing individuals linked to the illegal drug trade. Both Senator Bong Go and former Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, a key figure in Duterte’s war on drugs, have denied these allegations, contradicting videos that suggest the existence of such a reward system.
In a recent episode of Salvador Panelo’s program, Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa, Duterte confirmed his willingness to attend the hearing if formally invited. “Hindi ako aatras diyan. Sasagutin ko silang lahat at marami akong sasabihin sa taong bayan (I will not step back, I will answer them and I have a lot to tell the nation),” Duterte said.
While the former president has not yet received an official invitation, he emphasized that he would be pleased to participate, acknowledging the importance of the House of Representatives in addressing these issues. “There’s still no invitation, but I would be happy to attend. It’s an institution of government. They might want me to clarify, answer, or whatever… I am ready for that,” Duterte stated.
Aside from Duterte, other key officials from his administration are expected to appear at the hearing, including retired police colonel and former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office general manager Royina Garma and police Lt. Col. Jovie Espenido. Both have previously testified about an alleged scheme of payouts to those involved in killing drug suspects.
Duterte has publicly challenged the QuadComm to summon him, expressing readiness to answer any queries related to the extrajudicial killings.