DOJ to probe drug war cases

The Department of Justice (DOJ) will begin a preliminary investigation into the drug war.

Justice Undersecretary Raul Vasquez stated that the DOJ would initiate the investigation either upon referral from Congress or if a complaint is filed by the police or private individuals.

However, House Committee on Dangerous Drugs Chairman Robert Ace Barbers said that a committee report is not needed for the Executive branch to take action, as testimonies have been stated publicly.

Barbers added that they will provide a partial committee report if it is deemed a necessary requirement for the DOJ to kickstart their preliminary investigation.

This probe is expected to cover cases including the killings of three Chinese nationals in August 2016, retired general Wesley Barayuga in July 2020, and former Tanauan mayor Antonio Halili in July 2018.

The article details the circumstances of Barayuga's death, where he was shot by an unidentified motorcycle-riding assailant, and Halili's assassination during a flag-raising ceremony, with a sniper's nest found nearby.