MANILA — Leaders of the House ‘quad committee’, spearheaded by Surigao Del Norte 2nd District Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, reaffirmed their commitment to justice and truth in combating illegal drugs, dismissing allegations of political motivations behind their investigations. The committee’s focus is the alleged involvement of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators in the illegal drug trade and extrajudicial killings during the Duterte administration.
According to Philippines News Agency, Rep. Barbers, chairperson of the Dangerous Drugs panel, emphasized the importance of integrity in their probe, rejecting any claims of harassment towards those involved. He stated that the inquiry aims to uphold justice without succumbing to political pressures or distractions. Rep. Joseph Stephen Paduano, who heads the Committee on Public Accounts, supported Barbers’ views by countering Vice President Sara Duterte’s accusations of political harassment against her family members as unfounded.
The inquiry also touches on serious allegations against Vice President Sara Duterte’s husband, Manases ‘Mans’ Carpio, and brother, Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo ‘Pulong’ Duterte, linking them to the drug trade. Rep. Paduano urged the Dutertes to address the allegations straightforwardly, underscoring the committee’s dedication to an evidence-based investigation.
Further support came from Rep. Dan Fernandez and Rep. Bienvenido ‘Benny’ Abante Jr., who lead the Committees on Public Order and Safety, and Human Rights, respectively. Both reiterated the non-partisan nature of the probe, focusing solely on following the evidence and ensuring the application of law equally to everyone.
Antipolo 2nd District Rep. Romeo Acop, vice chair of the involved committees, clarified that their objective remains to reveal the truth and maintain transparency in their proceedings. The initial hearings of the quad-committee have already brought forward significant allegations, including testimonies against the Vice President’s relatives and former President Rodrigo Duterte’s economic adviser, Michael Yang, in a major drug smuggling case.
The quad-committee, comprising the House Committees on Dangerous Drugs, Public Accounts, Public Order and Safety, and Human Rights, continues its rigorous investigation, aiming to serve the Filipino people by shedding light on these serious accusations without fear or favor.