MANILA: Former president Rodrigo R. Duterte was absent from a House quad committee hearing addressing extrajudicial killings connected to his anti-drug campaign, citing health concerns. Duterte’s absence from the session, which sought to examine allegations from his tenure, was communicated through a letter from his attorney.
According to Philippines News Agency, Duterte’s lawyer, Martin Delgra III, informed the committee that the former president was unable to attend due to health issues. The letter emphasized Duterte’s intent to participate in the hearing but noted that his recent travels and engagements had taken a toll on his health, necessitating rest. Delgra conveyed Duterte’s request to reschedule his appearance for a date after November 1.
Lead committee chairperson and Surigao del Norte Representative Robert Ace Barbers had previously invited Duterte to contribute insights into the investigation, particularly concerning the extrajudicial killings. The committee is examining testimonies that link Du
terte to incidents, including the August 2016 murders of three Chinese drug lords in Davao prison and the alleged existence of a reward system for high-profile drug suspect assassinations.
Retired Lt. Col. Jovie Espenido claimed that the reward system was financed through illegal activities, including jueteng, Philippine offshore gaming operators, intelligence funds, and proceeds from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office’s small-town lottery operations.
Former senator Leila de Lima, a critic of Duterte who was jailed during his administration on drug charges that were later dismissed, attended the hearing as a resource person. De Lima expressed her hope for Duterte’s recovery and future participation in the proceedings, stating, “I hope he gets well soon so he can have the health to face the music.”