In a revealing testimony before the Senate, former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte admitted to employing a "death squad" during his mayoral tenure, showcasing his defiant stance regarding his anti-drug campaign that has drawn criticism and investigations worldwide.
Duterte Acknowledges 'Death Squad' Tactics in Philippines Drug War Testimony
Duterte Acknowledges 'Death Squad' Tactics in Philippines Drug War Testimony
Former president reveals controversial past amid ongoing international scrutiny.
Former President Rodrigo Duterte appeared before the Philippine Senate on Monday, openly discussing his involvement in and approach to the country’s notorious war on drugs that has led to thousands of deaths. Duterte did not shy away from admitting he maintained a "death squad" composed of gangsters during his time as mayor in Davao City, a tactic he used to tackle crime. He recounted instructing the squad to execute individuals who posed a threat, declaring, "kill this person, because if you do not, I will kill you now."
Duterte’s policies initially earned him widespread support, enabling him to win the presidency in 2016. However, his aggressive measures have been under investigation by the International Criminal Court due to the alarming number of deaths associated with police operations, with government reports indicating over 6,252 fatalities. Human rights organizations suggest that the actual numbers may be significantly higher.
During the Senate inquiry, Duterte stood firm, stating that he would not apologize for his actions, claiming they were done in the interest of national welfare. “I hate drugs, make no mistake about it,” he insisted, while denying allegations that he authorized police chief killings, instead attributing violent actions to his gang-operated squad.
In his testimony, he also reiterated his belief that crime rates have surged again since he left office, vowing that if given another chance, he would continue his harsh measures: “I’ll wipe all of you,” he affirmed.
This session marks Duterte’s first public engagement with victims' families and critics since his presidency ended in 2022, providing a platform for emotional confrontations with those seeking justice for their loved ones lost during the drug war. The legacy of Duterte's controversial campaign persists, as both supporters and opponents reflect on an era defined by severe policing and high casualty rates amid the struggle against drug use in the Philippines.
Duterte’s policies initially earned him widespread support, enabling him to win the presidency in 2016. However, his aggressive measures have been under investigation by the International Criminal Court due to the alarming number of deaths associated with police operations, with government reports indicating over 6,252 fatalities. Human rights organizations suggest that the actual numbers may be significantly higher.
During the Senate inquiry, Duterte stood firm, stating that he would not apologize for his actions, claiming they were done in the interest of national welfare. “I hate drugs, make no mistake about it,” he insisted, while denying allegations that he authorized police chief killings, instead attributing violent actions to his gang-operated squad.
In his testimony, he also reiterated his belief that crime rates have surged again since he left office, vowing that if given another chance, he would continue his harsh measures: “I’ll wipe all of you,” he affirmed.
This session marks Duterte’s first public engagement with victims' families and critics since his presidency ended in 2022, providing a platform for emotional confrontations with those seeking justice for their loved ones lost during the drug war. The legacy of Duterte's controversial campaign persists, as both supporters and opponents reflect on an era defined by severe policing and high casualty rates amid the struggle against drug use in the Philippines.
