Philippine House Endorses Criminal Charges Against Duterte for EJKs

In a significant development, the House of Representatives of the Philippines has firmly endorsed the quad-committee's recommendation to file criminal charges against former President Rodrigo Duterte, stemming from his administration's controversial war on drugs, which has been linked to numerous extrajudicial killings (EJKs). This resolution was adopted during a plenary session on June 10, 2025, reflecting a growing political momentum for accountability regarding the actions taken under Duterte's leadership.

The quad-committee, established to investigate various issues including money laundering and drug-related crimes associated with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), presented its final report which recommends charges under Section 6 (Other Crimes Against Humanity) of Republic Act No. 9851. Surigao del Norte 2nd district Representative Robert Ace Barbers, who chairs the committee, articulated the necessity of these actions, asserting that the evidence gathered during hearings substantiates the claims against Duterte and other political figures, including Senators Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa and Christopher "Bong" Go.

Barbers emphasized the committee’s commitment to a thorough investigation, stating, "The quad-comm was able to prove the critics wrong. It does not exist for political persecutions or cheap propaganda." This assertion responds to earlier skepticism regarding the committee's intentions, which were perceived by some as politically motivated.

The report not only calls for criminal accountability for Duterte but also highlights the killings of three Chinese inmates at the Davao Prison in 2016, recommending murder charges against several high-ranking officials, including Duterte. The committee conducted 15 marathon hearings and scrutinized critical evidence, including testimonies and documentary proof regarding the alleged EJKs.

Additionally, the report has sparked discussions on broader reforms, advocating for amendments to the Bank Secrecy Act and the creation of an independent Internal Affairs Service for the Philippine National Police (PNP). It also raises concerns about the alleged bank accounts shared between Duterte and his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, which reportedly received funds from drug-related sources.

This push for accountability reflects a significant shift in the political landscape of the Philippines as the House seeks to address the contentious legacy of Duterte’s drug war, which has claimed thousands of lives since its inception in 2016. The committee's findings and recommendations underscore a growing demand for justice and policy reforms aimed at preventing future abuses.

The implications of these developments are profound, raising questions about the potential for political accountability in the Philippines and the future of governance under subsequent administrations. As the quad-committee continues its investigations, the eyes of both national and international communities remain focused on the unfolding situation, with calls for transparency and justice resonating across various sectors of society.