MANILA: Former President Rodrigo R. Duterte is set to attend the Senate inquiry into his administration’s controversial war on drugs, Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa confirmed on Tuesday. Dela Rosa, who served as the chief of the Philippine National Police during Duterte’s presidency, conveyed this assurance, indicating Duterte’s willingness to participate regardless of the presiding senator.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dela Rosa communicated through a Viber message that Duterte had expressed his intention to attend the Senate hearing, highlighting his preference for the Senate over the House of Representatives. Dela Rosa also addressed concerns about a potential conflict of interest, as both he and Senator Christopher Go have been implicated in allegations of irregularities and extrajudicial killings during the drug war. He emphasized his commitment to attending the hearings to counter what he described as falsehoods, asserting that the public deserves to know the truth.
The investigation is set
to be overseen by Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III, who will preside over the Blue Ribbon subcommittee inquiry. Pimentel announced that the first public hearing is scheduled for October 28 and extended an invitation to Dela Rosa, should he wish to attend. Dela Rosa dismissed suggestions for him and Go to take an indefinite leave of absence ahead of the inquiry, underscoring his intention to directly address the allegations.