BAYAN is calling on Senators Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa and Christopher “Bong” Go to inhibit themselves from participating as Senate panel members in the ongoing investigations into the extrajudicial killings (EJKs) that transpired under the Duterte administration. Given their central roles and close affiliations during that period, it is imperative for the integrity and impartiality of these proceedings that they only participate as resource persons.
Senator dela Rosa, having been the chief architect of the Duterte administration’s war on drugs as then-PNP Chief, and Senator Go, who served as a trusted aide and confidant of President Duterte, cannot be expected to objectively investigate matters where they were directly involved. To allow them to do so would compromise the impartiality and credibility of these hearings.
Instead, we urge the Senate to call upon them as resource persons and compel them to take an oath to tell the truth under penalty of perjury. This is essential in ensuring that the Filipino people uncover the truth behind the thousands of lives lost and the state-led violence that has plagued our communities. They owe it to the families of the victims and to the Filipino people to be truthful and transparent about their knowledge and involvement in these operations.
The Senate must demonstrate its commitment to justice and accountability by ensuring that no conflicts of interest undermine its work. We, in BAYAN, will continue to advocate for the truth and seek justice for all the victims of human rights violations. The fight for accountability is far from over, and we demand nothing less than a genuine, impartial investigation that holds those responsible to account.
Let us stand united in the pursuit of truth and justice for the Filipino people. #
