Former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte‘s defiant testimony at Monday’s Senate hearing has reignited controversy and concern among Filipinos, particularly families of victims of his infamous “war on drugs.”
Duterte, 79, denied authorizing extrajudicial killings during his 2016-2022 presidency but admitted to maintaining a “death squad” as Davao mayor. His testimony sparked fears of a resurgence in violence and impunity.
His revelation has added weight to ongoing investigations into his violent anti-drug campaign.
In his first official testimony regarding his war on drugs, Duterte, openly discussed the existence of this squad, saying it was composed of gang members to whom he issued direct orders: “Kill this person, because if you do not, I will kill you now.”
Duterte rose to the presidency in 2016, riding on a campaign promise to implement the same aggressive tactics he used in Davao City across the nation. His nationwide crackdown on drugs led to thousands of deaths in police operations, actions that have since attracted scrutiny from the International Criminal Court.
Testifying before a Senate inquiry, Duterte admitted instructing police to “encourage” suspects to resist arrest, creating scenarios where lethal force could be used. He also maintained a defiant stance, asserting that he would not apologize or excuse his actions, saying, “I did it for my country.” He stressed his disdain for drug-related crime, asserting, “I hate drugs, make no mistake about it.”
However, Duterte denied ordering police to kill suspects, emphasizing that the death squad he led was comprised of “gangsters… not policemen.” He claimed his squad was small, with seven members. He also lamented the resurgence of criminal activity in the Philippines since his departure from office, suggesting he would take similar action again if given the chance: “If given another chance, I’ll wipe all of you.”
Duterte’s appearance marked his first time answering questions from an official inquiry since leaving office in 2022. Among those present were families of victims of the anti-drug campaign and former Senator Leila de Lima, a critic of Duterte who was jailed on now-dismissed charges during his term.
Official figures from the Philippine government report that over 6,252 people were killed by police or unknown assailants during Duterte’s tenure. However, human rights groups argue the true death toll may reach tens of thousands. A report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights previously criticized Duterte’s rhetoric, stating it potentially emboldened police to kill.
The former president’s harsh campaign has polarized the Philippines, drawing widespread international condemnation but retaining significant domestic support in a country where drug use, particularly of methamphetamine or “shabu,” remains prevalent.