Duterte confirms cash rewards for police in anti-drug ops

Former President Rodrigo Duterte confirmed during a Quad-Comm hearing on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, that there was a cash reward system for police officers involved in anti-drug operations.

Duterte acknowledged the existence of the rewards but denied they incentivized killings, stating funds came from peace and order funds available at all levels of executive offices.

Former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Royina Garma revealed that Duterte instructed former National Police Commission Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo to implement a reward system nationwide for targeting drug suspects.

The rewards ranged from PHP20,000 to PHP1 million and were authorized by local government officials when necessary for out-of-town operations.

Duterte admitted issuing lethal orders during such operations and confirmed using surplus campaign funds to bolster anti-drug efforts, arguing it was to 'protect public interest.'