The Department of Justice (DOJ) is considering issuing a subpoena to former president Rodrigo Duterte as part of its review of evidence related to potential cases, including crimes against humanity, recommended by the House of Representatives’ quad committee.
Justice Undersecretary Jesse Andres confirmed in a One News PH report that the DOJ’s National Prosecution Service (NPS) is consolidating evidence, including disclosures from the quad committee’s report, to assess whether cases should be filed in local courts. Andres emphasized that any charges brought forward would be evidence-based, not politically motivated.
“If the evidence warrants, cases will be filed through the NPS. However, we assure everyone that no harassment cases will be pursued,” Andres said.
Duterte, along with Senators Ronald dela Rosa, Bong Go, and former police chief Debold Sinas, faces potential prosecution for alleged extrajudicial killings (EJKs) linked to the drug war during his administration. The International Criminal Court (ICC) is also investigating Duterte for crimes against humanity, with human rights groups estimating the death toll at up to 30,000, mostly from impoverished communities.
Andres pointed out that the former president’s public statements under oath could serve as admissible evidence. He clarified that past presidents are not immune from legal accountability and reiterated the government’s commitment to justice.
The DOJ’s ongoing investigation includes reports of killings of Chinese drug lords in 2016 and a Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office official in 2020. Andres assured the public that the investigation would be separate from the ICC probe but handled with care to avoid compromising justice.
Meanwhile, Duterte pledged P3 million from his pension for pediatric cancer patients during his annual gift-giving event in Davao City. He also distributed 62 e-bikes and grocery packs to the children and their families, continuing his tradition of philanthropy.
