Summary of PART 1: House QuadComm hearing on Duterte drug war, EJKs and other issues | November 13, 2024
The video covers the 11th joint public hearing of the Quad Committee, focusing on the controversial drug war led by former President Rodrigo Duterte, which has been marked by allegations of Extrajudicial Killings (EJKs). The session features various lawmakers, resource persons, and testimonies from victims' families, as well as Duterte himself, who is present to respond to inquiries about his administration's policies and actions during the war on drugs.
Key Points:
- Opening Remarks: The session begins with prayers and acknowledgments of the members and resource persons. The chair emphasizes the importance of seeking truth and justice regarding the alleged EJKs that occurred during Duterte's administration.
- Duterte's Defense: Former President Duterte asserts that he takes full responsibility for the actions of law enforcement during his drug war. He defends the policies he implemented, arguing that they were necessary to combat the drug crisis in the Philippines, which he claims posed a significant threat to the youth and society.
- Extrajudicial Killings: Various lawmakers challenge Duterte on the high number of deaths attributed to the drug war, with estimates suggesting over 20,000 fatalities. They express concern over the lack of accountability and the presence of collateral damage, particularly among innocent civilians, including children.
- Reward System: The hearing discusses the alleged reward system for police officers involved in drug operations, with testimonies indicating that officers received monetary rewards for killings. Duterte acknowledges that there was a reward system but insists it was intended for successful drug operations rather than for Extrajudicial Killings.
- Victim Testimonies: Family members of victims of the drug war share their heartbreaking stories, highlighting the pain and suffering caused by the violence. They demand justice and accountability for the deaths of their loved ones.
- Legal and Moral Responsibility: The committee members emphasize the need for due process and adherence to human rights standards. They question Duterte's justification for killings and the implications of his orders on law enforcement practices.
- Duterte's Stance: Throughout the hearing, Duterte maintains that his actions were aimed at protecting the Filipino people and that he is willing to face any legal consequences if found guilty of wrongdoing.
- Future Investigations: The discussions touch upon the possibility of investigations by the International Criminal Court (ICC) into the alleged crimes during Duterte's presidency. Duterte expresses his willingness for the ICC to conduct an investigation but insists on his innocence.
Contributors:
- Former President Rodrigo Duterte
- Various members of the Quad Committee
- Resource persons including family members of victims and legal advocates
- Congressman Benny Advincula
- Congressman Don Fernandez
- Congressman Raul Manuel
- Congressman Johnny Pimentel
- Congressman Paduano
- Congressman Franz Castro
This summary encapsulates the critical discussions and the emotional testimonies that unfolded during the hearing, reflecting the ongoing debates surrounding the drug war's legacy in the Philippines.
Notable Quotes
— 00:00 — « No notable quotes »
Category
News and Commentary