The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on Sunday, October 13, that it would begin investigating the killings of high-profile figures during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s drug war once the House of Representatives formally submits its report or if an individual files a complaint.
Justice Undersecretary Raul Vasquez made the statement following revelations from former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) general manager and ex-Cebu City police chief Royina Garma during the eighth House Quad Committee hearing. Garma claimed that Tanauan Mayor Antonio Halili, who was killed in 2018, was shot by a sniper from a police team.
Vasquez clarified that for the DOJ to launch an investigation, either a referral from the House or a complaint from a private individual is required. He emphasized the need for a formal process to initiate the probe.
Garma, in her testimony, also revealed that Duterte had urged her to implement the “Davao Model,” a system that rewarded police officers based on the number of drug suspects they killed.
As further developments unfold, Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers mentioned that it would be up to the DOJ to determine whether Garma qualifies to become a state witness.
