HOUSE Assistant Majority Leader Taguig City Representative Pammy Zamora has stated that former President Rodrigo Duterte can shed light and clarify his side by attending the House Quad Comm hearing scheduled for Thursday, November 7.

“As a lawyer, ex-President Duterte has the opportunity to show Filipinos his commitment to lawful processes by participating in the Quad Comm inquiry into the war on drugs, which allegedly claimed over 30,000 lives,” Zamora, one of the leaders of Young Guns, said.

The lady solon added that Duterte’s attendance would “reinforce respect for the rule of law by advocating that everyone, regardless of former titles, should be willing to answer for their actions.”

The mega panel, chaired by Surigao del Norte 2nd District Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, had anticipated Duterte’s appearance as a resource person in the previous hearing on October 22. However, Duterte declined due to stated health reasons.

Yet, just six days later, on October 28, a seemingly energetic Duterte attended the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s investigation of a similar nature, even stating he was prepared to answer senators’ questions until the following morning.

Zamora noted that by appearing before the Quad Comm, Duterte could dispel the impression that he favors other venues over the House of Representatives while also setting a good precedent for both incumbent and former officials”

She also emphasized that through his counsel, Atty. Martin Delgra III, Duterte had indicated his availability for a hearing after November 1.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Jester P. Manalastas