MANILA — Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa on Thursday criticized the House of Representatives’ investigation into former President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial drug war, asserting that it is an attempt to undermine Vice President Sara Duterte’s potential bid in the 2028 elections.
Dela Rosa claimed that efforts were being made to persuade former police officers to testify against Duterte during the congressional inquiry into the drug war.
“Most likely because the effort is there, halata naman natin sino yung nandoon nagkukumbinse sila na mag-testify against Duterte,” Dela Rosa stated in a phone interview.
“They will erase their perceived opposition… Dahil kung idaan sa election, mukhang mahirapan naman talaga sila kay Vice President Inday Sara, so hanap sila ng paraan na ma-eliminate yung opposition nila,” the senator added.
As of now, Vice President Duterte has not yet disclosed her plans for the 2028 elections.
Dela Rosa further noted that none of the approached police officers agreed to take part in the House investigation.
“They stood their ground, they refused, di sila pumayag na gagamitin sila na pagdiin kay Pangulong Duterte,” Dela Rosa said.
The House recently established a “quad-committee” to look into alleged extrajudicial killings during Duterte’s drug war, crimes associated with illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), and illegal drug activities.
House leaders have indicated that Dela Rosa and Duterte would be invited by the panel to provide information on these matters.