Dark Shadows: The Continuing Investigation into the Duterte Administration's Drug War

The Composition of the Quad Committee The Quad Committee is a mega-panel that brings together four key committees: Dangerous Drugs, Public Order and Safety, Human Rights, and Public Accounts. Led by Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, the committee includes notable members such as Joseph Stephen “Caraps” Paduano, Dan Fernandez, and Bienvenido Abante. Their collective expertise aims to shed light on the complexities surrounding the drug war, with a particular focus on the alleged extrajudicial killings that have marred Duterte’s administration. Key Testimonies from Previous Hearings During the preceding hearing on October 22, Senator Leila de Lima provided compelling testimony, likening the Duterte administration's tactics to those of the infamous Davao Death Squad. This assertion was reinforced by former NAPOLCOM chief Edilberto Leonardo, who confirmed the existence of a rewards system that incentivized police operations, echoing earlier statements from former PCSO general manager Royina Garma. The "Davao model" of policing, which allegedly involved a three-tier payment system for successful drug operations, raises serious questions about the integrity of law enforcement during this period. Connections to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) One of the most alarming aspects of the current inquiry is the investigation into the links between POGOs and the illegal drug trade. With the rise of online gambling in the Philippines, concerns have emerged regarding how these operators may facilitate or finance drug trafficking. The Quad Committee's inquiry aims to uncover these connections, which could reveal a broader network of crime and corruption that extends beyond the drug trade. New Testimonies and Revelations The most recent hearing also featured testimonies from individuals involved in high-profile cases, such as the death of Mayor Rolando Espinosa Sr. and the assassination of Mayor Antonio Halili. Jail officers Roger Rezaga and Julito Retana provided insights into the incidents surrounding Espinosa's death, while Norvin Tamisin claimed wrongful accusations related to the murder of Mayor Caesar Perez. These testimonies highlight the pervasive culture of fear and violence that characterized the Duterte administration's drug war.