Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr., co-chair of the House Quad Committee, on Wednesday expressed doubt over Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa’s ability to conduct a fair Senate investigation into the Duterte administration’s bloody war on drugs.
Abante, who chairs the House Committee on Human Rights, argued that Dela Rosa’s close ties with former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte could compromise the integrity of the upcoming Senate probe.
“I would think that he (Dela Rosa) would be more biased than balanced in that hearing,” Abante said during Wednesday’s press conference at the House of Representatives.
Dela Rosa, a key figure in Duterte’s war on drugs, was promoted from brigadier general to Philippine National Police (PNP) chief during Duterte’s presidency, which Abante cited as a significant concern.
Dela Rosa’s rapid rise to PNP chief in 2016 coincided with the role of the police force in implementing the anti-drug operations that led to thousands of deaths, many of which were labeled extrajudicial killings (EJKs).
Dela Rosa recently announced that the Senate would launch its investigation into the drug war, with plans to invite Duterte as a resource person.
Abante questioned Dela Rosa’s ability to remain impartial given his involvement in the controversial anti-drug campaign and close relationship with Duterte.
Despite his concerns, Abante welcomed the Senate’s investigation to complement the ongoing House probe.
“Sabi ng Bible, two is better than one. Eh ‘di partner na kami ng Senado when it comes to investigation,” he said.
Abante also said it was up to Duterte whether to appear before the Senate or the House Quad Comm.
“It’s up to him… Hopefully, he will come and say what he would like to say,” he added.
The Quad Comm has conducted eight public hearings so far, with Duterte’s name repeatedly surfacing in connection with EJKs tied to the drug war.
The most recent hearing featured explosive testimony from former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office general manager and retired PNP colonel Royina Garma, confirming a reward system for killing drug suspects.
The House mega-panel—comprising the Committees on Dangerous Drugs, Public Order and Safety, Human Rights and Public Accounts—plans to invite Duterte to a future hearing, ensuring careful scheduling to allow him to speak without delay.
Abante downplayed concerns about Duterte appearing before the Senate first, saying the House would closely monitor the former president’s statements.
“Whatever he will say, babantayan namin ng maigi ‘yan,” Abante said.
The Quad Comm is investigating links between illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), the drug trade, land grabbing by Chinese nationals, and EJKs linked to Duterte’s war on drugs.
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