Duterte testifies before Senate, takes legal responsibility but denies liability for specific deaths

Former President Rodrigo Duterte testified before the Philippine Senate on October 28, admitting that his rhetoric was intended to intimidate criminals and stating he takes 'full legal responsibility' for killings during his presidency.

However, when asked if he felt personally responsible for specific deaths, such as teenager Kian delos Santos, Duterte denied liability citing the principle of personal guilt in criminal law.

Duterte's testimony highlighted the ongoing debate over accountability for extrajudicial killings under his administration.