Duterte skips drug war inquiry, cites lack of funds

Former President Rodrigo Duterte stated that he lacks funds and has no further explanation to offer about the drug war during his tenure, skipping a House Quad Committee inquiry on Thursday.

Duterte's legal counsel Atty. Martin Delgra III sent a letter to the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs explaining that Duterte is doubtful of the integrity and independence of the Quad Comm.

House Quad Committee co-chair Rep. Joseph Stephen Paduano expressed disappointment over Duterte's absence, urging him to attend future hearings.

Duterte told media he does not have extra money for travel expenses and accused lawmakers of trying to intimidate him with threats of contempt of court.

The former president also denied receiving an invitation from the Quad Comm and accused Rep. Dan Fernandez and Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. of suborning perjury after allegations of 'forced admissions' from resource persons.