Palace backs PNP plan to reinvestigate drug war killings

The Palace supports the Philippine National Police's (PNP) plan to reinvestigate high-profile killings related to the previous administration's war on illegal drugs.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed the support, emphasizing that reopening these investigations indicates the Marcos administration’s commitment to justice and the rule of law.

The PNP-CIDG will review unsolved criminal cases, including those involving Tanauan City Mayor Antonio Halili who was killed in 2018 during flag-raising rites at the city hall.

CIDG is also investigating retired police colonel Royina Garma's allegations that former President Rodrigo Duterte and his aide Sen. Bong Go were involved in a reward system for killing drug suspects.

The PNP will look into possible links between cases involving Barayuga and Halili, as well as other key personalities killed during the height of Duterte’s drug war.

Government estimates indicate at least 6,117 people were killed in Duterte's drug war between July 2016 and May 2022, while human rights groups suggest a higher death toll of up to 30,000.

Senator Ronald M. Dela Rosa will invite former President Duterte and his ex-Cabinet members to answer questions about the deadly drug war, aiming for transparency in Senate inquiries.