House directs four committees to investigate POGOs, drug proliferation, human rights abuses

House officials have supported proposals for different committees to jointly investigate illegal activities linked to Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), drug proliferation, and alleged human rights violations.

Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. emphasized the need for a coordinated approach during a privilege speech on Monday, highlighting issues of public order, dangerous drugs, and human rights abuses.

On Tuesday, the House adopted Resolution No. 1880 via voice voting, directing four committees—the Committees on Dangerous Drugs, Public Order and Safety, Human Rights, and Public Accounts—to conduct joint investigations into these interconnected issues.

House committee chairpersons announced Wednesday that they will invite former President Rodrigo Duterte, Senator Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa, and ex-Duterte spokesperson Harry Roque to the hearing for their insights on drug war deaths during his administration.

The quadruple committee inquiry aims to investigate potential links between POGOs and crimes, including extrajudicial killings involving drugs, with hearings scheduled to begin on August 15.

Committee chairperson Reynato Abante said inviting Duterte is crucial as he alone can answer questions about the number of deaths during his war on drugs campaign.