By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte will no longer be invited by the House Quad Committee as it prepares to present to the plenary an initial report on its exhaustive inquiries into illegal drugs, the connection to illicit Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), and extrajudicial killings (EJKs) during his administration.
On Sunday, December 8, 2024, lead panel chairman Rep. Robert Ace Barbers of Surigao del Norte announced that the mega committee would submit the report before Congress begins its Christmas recess on December 21.
“No need na siguro, because yong 12-13 hours na meeting natin sa kanya (Duterte) basically ‘yun na yong gusto nating marinig, a little more than what he revealed or what he admitted in the Senate. So sa tingin ko sufficient na yon,” Barbers said.
He added that the Quad Committee is presenting a “progress report” so that several remedial legislative measures filed by its members could soon be acted upon.
“The reason kasi why we will submit this in the plenary ‘yong progress report, kasi there are things na dapat maaksiyunan na kaagad,” Barbers explained.
He noted that the plenary could suggest to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to include the measures in his priority legislative agenda, or even certify them as urgent to expedite the approval process.
“Halimbawa, no yong mga proposed legislation na ifinile namin no we are hoping na because this is the output of Quad Comm…eh dapat siguro kung pupuwede maisama sa legislative agenda na ating Pangulo or baka suwertehin pa tayo, ma-certify as urgent yung bill no nang sa ganun yung counterpart naman sa Senate ay gumawa din at kumilos din. So basically, this is the intention of the progress report, para ma-dispose na namin yan,” the Surigaonon lawmaker stressed.
Barbers highlighted that Quad Comm members have introduced at least four remedial measures.
“Importante yan kasi, if I’m not mistaken, mayroon kaming mga apat na proposed legislation na diyan tungkol sa amendments to the Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002,” he said.
“So maaaring ma-consider din ito bilang priority legislation. So sana, this is what we are hoping for na once the plenary ay majority of the members agree and vote in support of this report, then perhaps it will give a signal that this should be included in the legislative agenda of our President,” he added.
Among the proposed legislation is a bill defining extrajudicial killing as a heinous crime with the maximum penalty for offenders, and a proposal to create an inter-agency government committee led by the Philippine Statistics Authority to expedite the cancellation of questionable birth certificates.
During its inquiry, the panel discovered that several Chinese nationals obtained Filipino citizenship using fake birth certificates. These individuals then formed corporations and purchased land and buildings used for illegal activities, including a warehouse in Barangay San Jose Malino, Mexico town, Pampanga, where authorities seized ₱3.6 billion worth of shabu in September 2023.
Barbers noted that the initial progress report would also include recommendations for filing charges against individuals linked to illegal drugs, illicit POGOs, and EJKs, urging government agencies to pursue these cases.
“Mayroon tayong nirerekomenda d’yan based on testimonial evidence and documentary evidence. Eh nakita namin na siguro its high time that we report this out and let the appropriate agency conduct further investigation on EJK, mayroon din sa POGO and drugs,” he said.
The panel will continue presenting progress reports as it pursues inquiries into illegal drugs, POGOs, and EJKs. Barbers mentioned the plan to conclude the POGO segment of the investigation to focus on drugs and EJKs.
“We are thinking of already terminating yong hearing namin sa POGO, so tututok na lang tayo sa dalawang usapin no yong EJK at saka yong drugs,” the Mindanao lawmaker said.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Wednesday (14 Nov 2024) denied his infamous 2016 statement, in which he claimed to have thrown an alleged kidnapper from a helicopter as a warning to corrupt public officials.
The comment, made during his presidency, was widely reported by international media at the time.
During the Quad Comm hearing, Manila Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. questioned Duterte about his 2016 remark and pressed him for clarification.
Duterte, however, dismissed the statement as “hyperbole,” denying that he ever actually followed through with the threat.
Abante, a co-chair of the Quad Comm, referred to Duterte’s notorious 2016 comments, which were picked up by global outlets such as The Washington Post.
“You said publicly, and I quote: ‘If you are corrupt, I will fetch you using a helicopter to Manila, and I will throw you out. I have done this before, why would I not do it again?’” Abante said.
He challenged Duterte to explain whether he felt justified in making such violent threats against those he deemed corrupt.
In response, Duterte downplayed his words as an exaggeration.
“Hindi sir, hyperbole lang ‘yan sir. Hindi papayag ang piloto n’yan sir,” Duterte replied.
However, his denial has raised questions about the impact of his past rhetoric, which critics argue has contributed to a culture of impunity and violence.
Abante continued to press Duterte for clarity, asking if he had ever actually thrown someone from a helicopter or if it was simply a joke.
“So if you feel justified in doing it, can you please name to us the victim? Sino po ‘yong tinapon niyo sa helicopter?” Abante asked.
Duterte stood by his defense, claiming that his comments were merely a fictional story meant to intimidate criminals. “Well sir, sabi ko, storya lang. Para sa kriminal. Pero paano ko itapon ‘yan, buksan mo pa ‘yong… hyperbole nga,” Duterte insisted.
Duterte’s helicopter remarks in 2016 were part of a broader pattern of provocative statements throughout his presidency, in which he often encouraged police and vigilantes to target suspected criminals and drug offenders.
While he has repeatedly claimed his comments were intended to intimidate criminals, human rights advocates argue that such rhetoric contributed to the thousands of extrajudicial killings that occurred under his administration.
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By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — Former President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday (13 Nov 2024) urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) to expedite its investigation into his administration’s war on drugs.
During a hearing of the House Quad Committee, Duterte was asked by Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas if he would cooperate with the ICC’s probe.
“I am asking the ICC to hurry up. If possible, they can come here and start the investigation tomorrow. This issue has been left hanging for so many years,” Duterte responded.
“Baka mamatay na ako, hindi na nila ako ma-imbestiga. I am asking the ICC, through you, to come here tomorrow and start the investigation,” added the former president, who is now 79 years old.
Duterte further stated that if found guilty, he would “go to prison and rot there for all time.”
The ICC is investigating Duterte’s controversial war on drugs, which began during his presidency.
The Philippines withdrew from the ICC’s Rome Statute in 2018 under Duterte’s administration.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — In a striking admission before the House Quad Comm on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, former President Rodrigo Duterte revealed that he personally killed six or seven people he described as “criminals” during his time as mayor of Davao City.
During questioning by Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas, Duterte, under oath, confirmed his involvement in the killings. “Ako? Marami. Mga 6 o 7. Hindi ko na-follow up sa hospital kung natuluyan,” he said.
Duterte recounted patrolling Davao’s streets on his motorcycle, hoping to encounter criminals. “Nagdasal po ako na magmo-motor ako na may mag-hold-upper diyan. At kung [mahuli] kita, talagang patayin kita. Wala akong pasensya sa kriminal,” he stated.
Brosas pressed him on taking responsibility for extrajudicial killings (EJKs) linked to his administration’s war on drugs, urging him to acknowledge accountability in front of families of alleged innocent victims caught in the campaign’s crossfire.
“I and I alone take full legal responsibility sa lahat na nagawa ng mga pulis pursuant to my order. Ako ang managot. At ako ang makulong, huwag ‘yung pulis na sumunod sa order ko,” Duterte responded.
As Brosas continued to probe, she cited his “Davao model” approach and asked if it had inspired the national anti-drug policy. Duterte resisted a straightforward answer, saying, “Do not ask me to answer yes or no… Why are you asking me to answer yes or no?”
The session grew tense as Brosas referenced earlier statements to business leaders, questioning if Duterte had urged police to use deadly force against suspects who resisted violently. Duterte confirmed this policy but maintained that his orders only allowed lethal force when officers’ lives were at risk.
In conclusion, he reiterated, “Ma’am, if you are the city executive or mayor, lahat ng utos mo na ginawa ng police and all the consequences, sagot ko ‘yan. Pati ang ginawa ng police, sagot ko ‘yan.”
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has boldly challenged the International Criminal Court (ICC) to proceed with its investigation into his controversial war on drugs, downplaying the potential for accountability on allegations of crimes against humanity.
Speaking at the Quad Comm hearing on Wednesday (November 13, 2024), Duterte dared the ICC to “come here and start the investigation tomorrow,” suggesting that he might die before they even have the chance.
“I’m asking the ICC to hurry up, and if possible, they can come here and start the investigation tomorrow,” Duterte said, responding to Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas’s questions.
“This issue has been left hanging for so many years. Matagal, ma’am, baka mamatay na ako hindi na nila ako maimbestigahan (It’s been a long time, ma’am, I might die before they get to investigate me),” he added.
His comments follow years of criticism over his alleged evasion of accountability for thousands of extrajudicial killings under his administration, which the ICC has heavily scrutinized.
Despite his controversial withdrawal of the Philippines from the ICC, widely seen as an attempt to avoid examination, Duterte claimed he would accept any verdict if found guilty.
“If I am found guilty, I will go to prison and rot there for all time,” he remarked, appearing unfazed by the gravity of the allegations against him.
Duterte has openly admitted to directing police to provoke resistance from criminals, effectively endorsing a “shoot-to-kill” approach.
When asked about his 2016 statements encouraging criminals to resist arrest, Duterte defended his stance. “Yes, because that could be justified kung lumaban (if they fought back),” he argued, framing the violence as a method to “reduce the number of criminals.”
His approach, he claimed, was simply to lessen the “burden” of crime by decreasing the population of alleged criminals.
“Doon sa mga manufacturer, sinasabi ko talaga patayin niyo, basta naabutan ninyo dyan sa factory na nagluluto ng shabu (To those manufacturers, I really said, kill them if you catch them cooking shabu in their factory),” he admitted, taking full responsibility for his orders.
“Yan ang utos ko, and I assume full responsibility (That’s my order, and I assume full responsibility),” Duterte concluded.
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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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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Emphasizing that no one is above the law—whether rich or poor, president or not—House Assistant Majority Leader Jay Khonghun of Zambales on Tuesday (November 5, 2024) called on former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to attend the Quad Comm hearing on Thursday, November 7.
“Nobody, and I mean nobody, is above the law—literally and figuratively. We are a nation of laws, not of men. This is too basic in all law schools,” Khonghun pointed out.
“And not just that, this is taught early in school, even to non-political science (pre-law) students. This very popular phrase is self-explanatory. This is also the essence and bedrock of our democratic society that we always hold dear,” he emphasized.
Khonghun, a leader of the “Young Guns” clique in the chamber, also reiterated that Duterte should move beyond merely protecting policemen he allegedly ordered to kill drug suspects, especially since he is no longer immune from prosecution as of July 2022.
“There is the repeated demand for public accountability here, especially in light of the so-called state-sponsored executions where innocent lives have been lost in the name of the purported war against illegal drugs,” Khonghun said.
“Go beyond rhetoric. Tell us the whole truth about EJKs, and don’t be selective in your testimony. The Filipinos deserve nothing less. Prove to us your real worth by showing you are the country’s poster boy in terms of transparency, that you’re not afraid of anything,” Khonghun said.
“Truth, no matter how hard, should prevail above everything else, even more than power itself.”
“There should be truth above power, whose holders only come and go. As elected officials in charge of making laws, ferreting out the whole truth has been part of our mandate. It is our priority, and we will make sure that real culprits are indicted, powerful or not,” he warned.
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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.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Leaders of the House Quad Committee have urged former President Rodrigo Duterte to avoid using profanity and inappropriate language in formal legislative hearings, warning that such behavior could set a negative example for Filipinos and undermine respect for legislative institutions if tolerated.
Laguna Rep. Dan Fernandez and Manila Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante stressed that Duterte’s conduct may encourage citizens to mimic his use of foul language, particularly in tense situations.
“Siguro kung siya ay isang private person lang, magsalita siya ng ganyan, magbiro siya, ay okay pa. Pero pag isang dating Pangulo ng bansa ay nagbiro ng ganyan… nakakatakot iyan,” Abante remarked.
Duterte recently testified before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, where he used profanities during his statements.
The lawmakers argued that legislative records are part of history and should not be marred by inappropriate language.
“Nakakahiya tayo… wala man lang nag-stand para i-delete o tanggalin ‘yon sa record ng Senado?” Fernandez commented.
He vowed that if Duterte uses similar language in Quad Comm hearings, he would ensure it does not make it into official records, to uphold the institution’s decorum.
Abante added that the issue is not merely about profanity but also the specific context of Duterte’s words.
“But the thing is this, yung PI, hindi lang mura ‘yan eh. Nanay ko, tinutukoy mo d’yan eh,” he explained, noting that the Filipino expletive in question goes beyond a simple insult, making it especially offensive to Filipinos.
Abante stated that if Duterte resorts to such language in a Quad Comm hearing, he would raise a “point of order.”
“We should not allow any vulgar statement in this hearing,” he insisted.
Both Abante and Fernandez emphasized the need to maintain standards of conduct within the legislative body, particularly in hearings involving sensitive issues like human rights.
When asked how they would handle a scenario where Duterte uses profanity in the Quad Comm, Fernandez explained, “We will try to remind him. Tapos pag paulit-ulit pa rin, then we have to take action.”
He stressed the importance of setting boundaries to prevent further incidents, given the Senate’s recent tolerance of Duterte’s behavior.
Abante expressed disappointment over the lack of intervention during Duterte’s Senate testimony.
“I want our people to know na lahat ng pronouncement ng Pangulo kahit na pagmumura niya, recorded po ‘yan sa Malacanang,” he noted.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Expressing disappointment with former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s behavior during a recent Senate hearing, a lawmaker stated that the ex-Chief Executive is neither a hero nor a god and lacks the power to exonerate rogue policemen and hired guns involved in extrajudicial killings under his violent war on drugs.
“He is not a hero. He is not God. He is not the law. He is not above the law. He is a plague,” said Rep. Rolando Valeriano, a member of the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability.
Valeriano emphasized that under the country’s laws, those who commit crimes—whether as principals, conspirators, accomplices, or accessories—are held accountable.
“It is not up to former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte to determine who is criminally, civilly, or administratively liable for crimes committed during his brutal war on drugs. His acceptance of legal responsibility for this campaign does not absolve others of their liability,” he said.
He further remarked that Duterte’s declaration that he alone should be held responsible was merely “grandstanding, a weak attempt to project strength to those rogue cops who committed crimes in his name, upon his orders, and with promises of rewards for suspects killed and arrested.”
Valeriano also highlighted that the House Quad Committee looks forward to Duterte’s commitment to attend its inquiry.
“The House has its own set of questions to uncover the truth. Our findings and recommendations will be based on evidence, which we will forward to the DOJ,” he stated.
He clarified that it is the DOJ or the Office of the Ombudsman that initially determines liability through probable cause and that the courts ultimately decide guilt.
Valeriano added that Duterte, as a former president, does not enjoy immunity from prosecution.
“There are no pending criminal cases against the former president, but he does face charges before the International Criminal Court (ICC). Those ICC charges will be his primary concern. It may take time for the DOJ or the Ombudsman to file charges and decide on any potential transfer to the Interpol, which enforces ICC arrest orders,” he noted.
There are also speculations that the ICC is close to issuing arrest warrants for Duterte and other key figures of his bloody war on drugs, including his former PNP chief and now Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — House Quad Comm leaders on Monday (28 Oct 2024) dismissed as “lies” the claims that they coerced a police official to support testimony regarding the controversial reward system in the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.
Police Col. Hector Grijaldo alleged before a Senate panel that Quad Committee co-chairs Reps. Dan Fernandez and Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. pressured him on October 22 to sign an affidavit backing former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Royina Garma’s claims on incentives in anti-drug operations.
Addressing the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing, attended by former President Rodrigo Duterte, Grijaldo claimed he felt “corrupted to make that statement” under pressure from the lawmakers.
Fernandez, chair of the House Committee on Public Order and Safety, firmly refuted Grijaldo’s claims, calling them “lies of the highest level” meant to undermine the mega-panel’s ongoing investigation into alleged extrajudicial killings during Duterte’s anti-drug campaign.
“Lies ‘yan,” Fernandez stated. “Pinatawag siya [Grijaldo] because Col. Garma’s lawyer informed us that he knew something about the reward system. We never asked him to sign any affidavit,” Fernandez added, stressing the committee’s commitment to uncovering the truth.
“This is their way to discredit the Quad Committee, but the truth will prevail. We are committed to pursuing justice for all lives lost,” added Fernandez, who represents Santa Rosa City.
Fernandez clarified that Garma had herself suggested Grijaldo’s involvement, believing he was knowledgeable about the alleged reward system.
“Before the Quad Committee hearing, Col. Garma requested a meeting, so I asked Chair Ace Barbers to join as a witness,” he said, referring to overall Quad Committee chair Rep. Robert Ace Barbers of Surigao del Norte.
He continued, “Major Mola, a friend of Garma’s, said she was ready to reveal the truth, but as soon as Col. Grijaldo, supposedly her friend, joined the discussion, everything changed. It’s no wonder Col. Grijaldo became a ‘pain in the neck’ for Col. Garma.”
Abante, also named in Grijaldo’s statement, denied any coercion and criticized the Senate hearing as biased.
“There is no truth to the accusations that I forced anyone to sign an affidavit in exchange for favors or promotions,” said Abante, who chairs the House Committee on Human Rights.
The lawmaker from Manila’s 6th District continued, “The conduct of the Senate hearing raises questions of fairness and impartiality. Senators cannot be both subjects of the hearing and responsible for conducting it.”
Following Grijaldo’s testimony, former President Duterte announced he would file a “subornation of perjury” case against Fernandez, alleging an attempt to improperly influence Grijaldo’s testimony.
“Carry on; nothing will prevent us from pursuing the truth behind all these killings,” Fernandez asserted.
Despite the allegations, Fernandez and Abante pledged to continue the Quad Committee’s investigation.
“In the end, we believe the truth will come out, and those responsible will be held accountable for these crimes against our people,” Abante concluded.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Former President Rodrigo Duterte missed the 9th hearing of the House Quad Committee on Tuesday (22 Oct 2024), which is investigating the extrajudicial killings (EJKs) linked to his controversial anti-drug campaign, among other pressing issues.
Duterte’s attorney, Martin Delgra III, notified the committee on Monday, October 21, 2024, that his client could not attend the scheduled hearing due to health concerns. In his letter to committee chairman Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, Delgra stated, “Unfortunately, despite his keen intention to attend, my client respectfully manifests that he cannot attend the public hearing set on 22 October 2024. Aside from the short notice given him, my client just arrived in Davao from Metro Manila last 17 October 2024. Considering his advanced age and the recent engagements he had to attend, he is currently not feeling well and is in need of much rest. Hence, my client respectfully requests to defer his appearance before the Honorable Committee scheduled tomorrow (Tuesday).”
Delgra expressed Duterte’s willingness to appear at a later date, preferably after November 1, 2024.
Rep. Barbers had previously invited the former President on October 18 to provide valuable insights on the ongoing inquiry, particularly regarding the extrajudicial killings that occurred during his administration.
On the eve of the hearing, Barbers and the other co-chairmen of the Quad Committee anticipated Duterte’s participation to address testimonies linking him to the August 2016 murders of three high-profile Chinese drug lords inside the Davao prison.
The committee was also keen to hear Duterte’s perspective on recent explosive claims made by senior police officers, including former colonel Royina Garma, who confirmed a reward system for EJKs that reportedly offered up to P1 million for the assassination of high-profile drug suspects. This revelation was initially disclosed by retiring police Lieutenant Colonel Jovie Espenido, who claimed the funding for this system came from illegal gambling activities and other dubious sources, including Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) and proceeds from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office’s (PCSO) small-town lottery operations.
Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr., chairman of the human rights committee, expressed a particular interest in understanding Duterte’s rationale behind the killings of suspects during the anti-drug campaign. “Bakit kailangang patayin yung suspect? Bakit kailangang pumatay ng libo-libo, mahigit na 20,000 suspect?” he questioned, emphasizing the need for accountability and clarity on the administration’s actions.
As the inquiry continues, the absence of the former President raises questions about transparency and responsibility regarding the controversial policies implemented during his tenure.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Did former President Rodrigo Duterte order the hit on retired General Wesley Barayuga?
This is one of the questions the House of Representatives’ four-committee panel, known as the Quad Comm, wants retired colonel and former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) general manager Royina Garma to answer, according to panel co-chair and House Committee on Human Rights Chair Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr.
On Monday, Abante urged Garma to “reveal all she knows about EJKs and identify those who ordered the killings, who carried out the orders, and all those involved.”
“Retired Colonel Garma’s explosive testimony last Friday linking former President Duterte and his close aide Sen. Lawrence ‘Bong’ Go to extrajudicial killings during the previous administration could be just the tip of the iceberg. This is just the beginning of a deeper inquiry into a more alarming issue: the alleged participation of higher officials in EJKs. There is much more to uncover, and we are committed to getting to the bottom of these serious allegations,” said the lawmaker.
Abante vowed the Quad Comm “will not stop until all the facts are laid bare because this is about accountability, from the lowest office to the highest post.”
“As she has declared, the truth will set her free. We welcome such a declaration, and we hope she would begin to tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth. She should not cover up the sins of her former superiors, the former president included,” added the representative from Manila.
For his part, Surigao Del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, the lead presiding officer of the Quad Comm, said among the issues he is personally interested in knowing is if the supposed directive to assassinate retired police general and PCSO board secretary Wesley Barayuga in July 2020 came from Garma or Duterte.
He noted that, so far, the testimony from retired colonel and National Police Commission Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo points to Garma as the one who ordered the “operation” on Barayuga and his inclusion in the Duterte administration’s drug list.
Former Colonel Edilberto Leonardo and Garma are graduates of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA).
A PNPA junior graduate, Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza, testified before the Quad Comm that Leonardo asked him to find a hitman to carry out the assassination of Barayuga.
Mendoza said he enlisted Nelson Mariano, a drug informant of his, to contact a hired killer. The latter then reached out to a certain “Loloy” to execute the plan.
On the day of the assassination, Mariano claimed that he and Loloy received real-time information on Barayuga’s movements, including a photograph of the late PCSO board secretary, supposedly taken by Garma during a PCSO board meeting, as well as details about the vehicle Barayuga would be using.
The information, according to Mariano, was sent by a certain “Toks,” reportedly a close aide of Garma. He also stated that Toks gave him P300,000 as payment for the hit.
The retired general was killed near the PCSO office in Mandaluyong City.
“We want retired Col. Garma to comment on the detailed testimonies of Lt. Colonel Mendoza and Mr. Mariano, and of course, on other EJK cases,” said Barbers.
Barbers added that since Garma has denied any involvement in Barayuga’s murder, “she should reveal who ordered it.”
“She should also tell us what she knows about the murder of three Chinese drug lords inside the Davao prison in August 2016. She has been implicated by at least three witnesses,” Barbers emphasized.
The joint panel is also keen to hear what Garma knows about other EJK cases.
ia/mnm
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — A member of the House Quad Committee on Thursday (10 Oct 2024) expressed hope that former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte was not joking when he said that he would attend the public hearing that is investigating in aid of legislation the intricate links between the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), the illegal drug trade and extra-judicial killings (EJKs).
“I would like to give the benefit of the doubt. Until he says, until he retracts it, until he says it’s a joke, I will treat it seriously,” 1-Rider party-list Representative Rodge Gutierrezs said in a press conference.
The QuadComm will resume its probe on Friday (11 October 2024).
Gutierrez underscored that the QuadComm welcomes former President Duterte’s reported willingness to attend the committee’s hearings.
“We welcome that sentiment. It is good to know that 1-Rider party-list Representative Rodge Gutierrez he is willing to attend the investigation, although he is yet to be invited,” Gutierrez said.
He assured FPRRD that “educated questions” will be asked.
Duterte had earlier said that the QuadComm should ask “educated questions.”
“But when it comes to questioning of the committee [members], the Committee has been asking educated questions,” Gutierrez pointed out.
ia/mnm
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Testifying before the House Quad Committee conducting an investigation in aid of legislation on the “bloody drug war” during the administration of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, Police Colonel Jovie Espenido on Wednesday (28 August 2024) divulged that former police chief and now Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa ordered him to kill suspected drug personalities, including Ozamiz Mayor Reynaldo “Aldong” Parojinog and his family.
This was revealed by Espenido on the third hearing of the House Quad Committee, which was formed to check the correlation between illegal activities in Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hubs, the illegal drug trade, and the extra-judicial killings (EJKs) in the course of the campaign against illegal drugs during the Duterte administration.
“Ang instruction lang na tulungan mo ako, Jovie, at saka si President Duterte, about this war against illegal drugs. So, dapat, galingan mo ha, ikaw ang i-assign ko as chief of police ng Albuera, so dapat mawala na yung mga drugs sa Albuera. “’Yun yung natandaan ko,” Espenido told the House panel.
Espenido also claimed that Dela Rosa insinuated that he “neutralize” drug personalities in Albuera, Leyte where the mayor, Rolando Espinosa, also died during a police operation.
“Ang police, isa lang ang word, general word na ibigay. Lahat [ng police], alam na namin ang isang meaning din. Pagsabi na mawala, kasali na ‘yung mamatay,” Espenido added.
In his affidavit submitted before the House Quad Committee, Espenido quoted PNP Chief dela Rosa saying that the “local drug kingpin was also tough so it required a tough officer like me to dismantle the Parojinog drug operations by all means necessary.”
“In police language, it included neutralization or elimination of the target. Moments after my phone conversation with Chief Bato, he issued a formal order to cause my transfer to Ozamiz. It was President Rodrigo Duterte himself who announced in August 2016 that Ozamiz City Mayor Reynaldo “Aldong” Parojinog was included in his list of public officials involved in illegal drugs, in national television during one of his press briefings in Malacañang,” Espenido narrated in his affidavit.
ia/mnm
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Lawmakers have urged former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to attend the hearing of the House Quad Committee “if he has nothing to hide” to shed light on the allegation that he ordered the killing of three alleged Chinese drug lords in a Davao prison in 2016.
During Thursday’s (22 August 2024) investigation in aid of legislation, inmates Fernando Magdadaro and Leopoldo Tan Jr. revealed that the three alleged Chinese drug lords were stabbed to death inside the Davao Prison and Penal Farm in exchange for money and their freedom.
Tan claimed that he overheard Superintendent Gerardo Padilla, the then officer-in-charge (OIC) of the facility, being “congratulated” by Duterte through a phone call.
“Habang naglalakad kami… tumunog ang cellphone ni Superintendent Padilla. Narinig ko na ang tumawag, [sinabing]: ‘Congrats, Superintendent Padilla, job well done. Pero grabe ‘yung ginawa, dinuguan.’ Alam ko na ang kausap ni Superintendent Padilla ay si President Duterte dahil pamilyar ang boses niya,” Tan told the House panel.
The House Quad Committee is investigating the links between alleged extrajudicial killings (EJKs), illegal drugs, and the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) involved in criminal activities and proliferated during the previous Duterte administration.
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By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, have remained silent on whether they will attend President Marcos’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22.
In a press briefing on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, House Secretary General Reginald S. Velasco announced that former Vice Presidents Leni Robredo and Jejomar Binay have officially sent their regrets, stating they will not be able to attend the SONA.
Former Vice President Noli de Castro has indicated his inability to attend but has not yet done so officially, according to the House Secretary General.
“Everything is okay. We’re just finalizing the seating arrangement,” Velasco told reporters covering the House of Representatives.
He added that over 2,000 guests have confirmed their attendance, making this SONA the largest so far. However, there are only 1,814 seats in the plenary.
Regarding security, the Presidential Security Command (PSC) is closely coordinating with the House Sergeant-at-Arms.
Rallies will be prohibited near the Batasan Complex. “They are not allowed to block Commonwealth Avenue,” Velasco said.
He added that rallies can be held at the University of the Philippines in Diliman or at the Quezon Memorial Circle.
Attendees will not be allowed to wear dresses with protest slogans. Velasco mentioned they will politely ask guests to change into proper attire, such as a barong or coat and tie.
While no threats have been received, the House Secretary-General emphasized that they “expect the worst but hope for the best.”
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Short of saying that his daughter is a liar, former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has rebuffed Vice President Sara Duterte for announcing that he and his two sons — Davao City Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte and Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte — will be running for senator in 2025.
“Maniwala kayo kay Inday? I-jamming ka niyan nang husto… Saan ka nakakita, tatay dalawang anak magtakbo [sa Senado]… Wag kayong kumagat kay Inday kasi ‘yan si Inday kagaya ko rin ‘yan,” the Duterte patriarch quipped.
Political pundits told Maharlika NuMedia that it was only a bluff when VP Sara claimed that it’s Baste who’s gunning for the presidency in 2028.
“Si Inday pa rin ang tatakbo pagka-presidente sa 2028,” they chorused.
On Sunday (30 June 2024), Duterte told reporters in Tacloban City not to believe his daughter’s statement about his supposed political plans.
He admitted that it would be “bizarre” if he were to be in the Senate alongside Pulong and Baste.
“Anong gagawin namin sa Senate…Anong gagawin namin doon?” Duterte said.
(el Amigo/mnm)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — “Look who’s talking.”
This was the gist of the reactions of Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez and Tingog Party-list Representative Jude Acidre to the claim of feisty former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte that he was a victim of “political persecution.”
The Tacloban local chief executive, who is a cousin of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, said the Taclobanons would rather gather to celebrate the feast of Santo Niño than listen to the “blasphemous” protests led by Duterte.
“There are many religious people here. They know there will be cussing. They don’t want that,” Romualdez said.
It can be recalled that during the height of his popularity, Duterte cursed and called God “stupid” because of the biblical story about the creation of Adam and Eve.
Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre echoed Romualdez’s apprehension, saying there were more curses than prayers in previous rallies led by Duterte.
In an open letter addressed to Taclobanons, Duterte charged the Marcos administration with efforts to stop the holding of the Maisug rally, which was initially slated for May 25 at the Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Plaza.
“As part of the Marcos administration’s policy of stifling peaceful dissent, they are doing everything to prevent this rally from happening,” Duterte ranted.
Mayor Romualdez, husband of former sexy star Cristina Gonzales, is also a cousin of the President.
He denied Duterte’s allegations, saying the event was canceled due to the onslaught of Typhoon Aghon.
(el Amigo/MNM)
By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Adhering to the biblical adage that “the truth shall set us free,” Manila Sixth District Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr., a Bible Baptist pastor, has announced that the House Committee on Human Rights which he chairs will launch its investigation in aid of legislation on May 22 into the alleged extrajudicial killings (EJKs) associated with the controversial war on drugs during the administration of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.
Abante disclosed that the first hearing will include a diverse group of participants, such as relatives of drug war victims, police officers, and Cabinet officials from the Duterte administration.
“Ang tanong siguro ng iba, why are we conducting an inquiry into the deaths of alleged drug addicts or drug dealers? First, we must begin with the principle that each life is valuable and that each life lost is a profound tragedy. Second, we must point out that those who lost their lives, like every Filipino, are protected by the rights granted by the Constitution, one of which is due process,” Abante said.
He added that the investigation aims to “seek the truth” and gather “comprehensive information” on the alleged widespread human rights violations linked to the drug war, with the ultimate goal of developing legislation to strengthen human rights in the country.
“Alleged drug users and dealers po sila, ‘di po sila na-convict because these alleged EJK victims were silenced, they were denied their rights. Now, it is our responsibility to the victims of alleged [EJK] and their families to seek the truth,” Abante explained.
He clarified, however, that it is not the intention of the committee to pass judgment, a point seconded by panel vice-chairman Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong.
“It’s not the intention of the committee to prove whether the drug campaign in the previous administration was bogus or not,” Adiong stressed.
(el Amigo/MNM)