Philippines Investigates Drug War and POGO Links

Philippines Forms Multi-Committee Panel to Investigate Drug War and POGO Links

In a bold move to address concerns over potential corruption and illegal activities, the Philippines’ House of Representatives has formed a multi-committee panel to investigate possible links between former President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-illegal drugs campaign and Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). This comprehensive investigation aims to uncover whether officials were bribed with “drug money” to allow POGOs to operate covertly within the country.

Launching a Comprehensive Investigation

The multi-committee panel, established through House Resolution 1880, will comprise four key committees: Dangerous Drugs, Public Order and Safety, Human Rights, and Public Accounts. The panel’s primary goal is to propose “remedial legislation” based on the findings of its investigation. The first meeting is scheduled for August 15, as announced by Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, Chair of the House Dangerous Drugs Committee.

Rep. Dan Fernandez, Chair of the House Public Order and Safety Committee, emphasized the interconnected nature of the issues at hand. “We saw that all the issues are interconnected,” he stated, highlighting the necessity of collaboration to ensure an efficient and thorough investigation. Fernandez also mentioned that House Speaker Martin Romualdez supports the creation of the panel.

Former President Duterte’s Involvement

To shed light on actions taken during his administration, former President Rodrigo Duterte will be invited to address the panel. However, Rep. Robert Ace Barbers assured that this invitation is not a form of “political persecution.” The investigation seeks to clarify actions and decisions made during Duterte’s term that may have facilitated the proliferation of POGOs.

Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido Abante, Chair of the House Human Rights Committee, noted the critical nature of involving the former President. “The investigation will touch on issues that only the former President can shed light on,” Abante explained, underscoring the importance of Duterte’s insights for the investigation’s success.

Context and Background

The investigation into POGOs and their potential links to illegal activities began even before the nationwide ban was announced by current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The nationwide POGO ban has garnered widespread support from the Filipino public, representatives, and even received praise from China, reflecting the international implications and importance of the issue.

Moving Forward

As the multi-committee panel prepares to launch its investigation, the House of Representatives aims to ensure transparency and accountability within the Philippine government. By addressing these complex issues, the panel hopes to develop remedial legislation that will prevent future corruption and illegal activities related to POGOs and the anti-illegal drugs campaign.

This proactive approach by the Philippine government signifies a commitment to justice and the rule of law, seeking to uncover the truth behind allegations of corruption and illicit activities. As the investigation progresses, it will be crucial to monitor the findings and recommendations put forth by the panel to ensure that necessary reforms are implemented effectively.

Stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds and the Philippines takes significant steps towards greater transparency and integrity in its governance.