House to probe 'gentleman's agreement' between Duterte and China

House Speaker Ferdinand Romualdez announced plans for committees to invite former administration officials to discuss a supposed gentleman's agreement between then President Rodrigo Duterte and China.

During a briefing, Assistant Majority Leader Zia Alonto Adiong emphasized that the inquiry into the alleged deal is a priority of the House of Representatives.

House leaders want relevant government officials who served during Duterte's term to be invited to hearings, including current officials from the Department of National Defense, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and the National Security Council.

Vice Chairperson Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo said he would like to hear testimonies from former secretaries such as Gilberto Teodoro (Gibo), Delfin Lorenzana, Hermogenes Esperon, and Perfecto Yasay regarding their experiences with the 'gentleman's agreement'.

Former Palace spokesman Harry Roque revealed that Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to maintain a status quo in Ayungin Shoal under Duterte's administration.

The House will prioritize national defense and security improvements to uphold territorial integrity and sovereignty, while also seeking clarification on any agreements made with China.