By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Leaders of the House Quad Committee are calling on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to utilize findings from the mega panel to pursue legal action against former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and others involved in extrajudicial killings (EJKs) during his administration.

Manila Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. and Laguna Rep. Dan Fernandez emphasized that while the Quad Committee does not have the authority to prosecute cases, they strongly urge the DOJ to act on their findings.

“If the DOJ requests, we are ready to turn over documents,” Abante assured, highlighting the committee’s commitment to cooperating with the justice system.

As chairman of the House Committee on Human Rights, Abante noted that these extrajudicial killings have impacted thousands of civilians, with estimates from the International Criminal Court indicating between 12,000 and 30,000 deaths during Duterte’s presidency.

“Willful killings have affected thousands of civilians,” Abante stated, stressing the systemic nature of the violence, which primarily targeted low-level drug offenders rather than major drug lords.

Fernandez pointed out the significance of Republic Act (RA) No. 9851, particularly the concept of command responsibility outlined in the law.

“RA 9851 clarifies the definition and penalties for acts against international humanitarian law, including genocide and crimes against humanity,” he explained, noting how Duterte’s own admissions could imply command responsibility.

Citing specific provisions of RA 9851, Fernandez stated, “Section 8 addresses command responsibility for superiors. As the supreme leader during his tenure, he bears responsibility.”

He added that Duterte’s role as commander-in-chief makes him accountable for the orders leading to the EJKs under his administration.

Abante reiterated the committee’s goal of seeking justice.

“We want justice to be served,” he asserted, emphasizing his position as chairman of the Committee on Human Rights.

While Abante condemned the presence of drugs in the country, he questioned the methods employed during the drug war that resulted in significant loss of life.

He challenged the rationale behind the thousands of civilian deaths, including minors, during the anti-drug campaign, asking, “Is it collateral damage when a 3-year-old or a 9-year-old is killed?”

According to Abante, most fatalities were drug users and pushers from impoverished communities, with only a few high-profile drug lords apprehended or killed.

He also criticized Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa’s dismissive remarks about the deaths, questioning the senator’s language and attitude towards the loss of life.

“What does he mean by ‘shit happens’? Perhaps he doesn’t understand the weight of that expression,” Abante remarked, challenging the normalization of violence during the drug war.

In response to a question about Duterte’s recent comments regarding a “death squad” and implications for retired generals, Fernandez said, “We know the President likes to joke, but sometimes it’s hard to discern the truth.”

However, he emphasized the necessity for accountability, stating that Duterte’s remarks must be taken seriously given his position as the country’s leader.

“Now, regarding his statements this time… he must be held responsible,” Fernandez insisted, highlighting the serious implications of Duterte’s words.

Fernandez urged the DOJ to apply RA 9851 to ensure accountability in cases involving crimes against humanity and EJKs.

ia/mnm