QUAD COMM LEADERS OFFER TO COVER DUTERTE’S EXPENSES TO ENSURE HIS ATTENDANCE AT EJK HEARINGS

By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Leaders of the House Quad Comm investigating alleged extrajudicial killings (EJKs) amid former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s brutal war on drugs have made a bold offer to personally fund his airfare and accommodations, including those of his entourage, to ensure his attendance at the hearings.

Quad Comm lead chair Robert Ace Barbers, along with co-chairs Dan Fernandez, Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. and Joseph Stephen “Caraps” Paduano, vice chair Romeo Acop, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr., and Deputy Speaker David “Jay-jay” Suarez, said they would “chip in” to remove any financial barriers Duterte cited as reasons for missing the panel’s Nov. 7 hearing.

“If finances are truly an issue, we’re ready to cover his travel and accommodations ourselves. This is about the people’s right to know the truth about alleged abuses in his administration’s anti-drug operations,” Barbers, who also chairs the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, said.

Duterte, who led a fierce anti-drug campaign during his presidency, faces scrutiny for reported human rights abuses, including the deaths of thousands, many from the urban poor.

In a recent interview, Duterte claimed financial limitations prevented his attendance.

His absence has sparked frustration among lawmakers, including Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” M. Dalipe, House Assistant Majority Leaders Jay Khonghun of Zambales and Paolo Ortega of La Union, who accused Duterte of dodging tough questions from legislators and refusing to face the families of EJK victims.

Paduano, chair of the Committee on Public Accounts, was especially blunt, questioning whether Duterte was intentionally avoiding accountability.

“Naglolokohan tayo dito… natatakot siya na pumunta dito?” Paduano said, referencing a letter from Duterte’s lawyer, Atty. Martin Delgra III, which cited health reasons for his absence.

In a follow-up letter, Duterte through Delgra claimed his appearance was “no longer necessary,” questioning the committee’s intentions and calling it a “ploy aimed to indict him.”

Quad Comm leaders underscored that their offer to fund Duterte’s attendance shows their seriousness in uncovering the truth.

“The committee is willing to help in any way possible. We’re all ready to contribute personally if that’s what it takes. This is about accountability, not excuses,” Fernandez, chair of Committee on Public Order and Safety, said.

Abante, who heads the Committee on Human Rights, added: “We’re offering to remove every obstacle. We’re even willing to ‘chip in’ if it means he can no longer avoid the inquiry. The victims’ families deserve the truth.”

Acop highlighted the committee’s gesture reflects its commitment to thoroughly investigate the allegations. “If covering his expenses is what’s needed to get to the bottom of this, so be it,” he said.

For his part, Gonzales emphasized the importance of transparency. “We’re willing to support Duterte’s travel and accommodations for him and his entourage if that’s what it takes. It’s our duty to ensure those responsible are held accountable,” he said.

Suarez described Duterte’s testimony as “crucial” to the ongoing probe. “If covering his expenses will help him fulfill his responsibility to the people, then we’ll chip in without hesitation,” Suarez pointed out.

Despite multiple invitations, Duterte has yet to appear, fueling speculation about his intentions.

With personal funds on the line, Quad Comm leaders remain undeterred. “This isn’t about politics, it’s about accountability. We’re willing to cover every expense if that’s what it takes to get answers for the people,” Barbers said.

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