Duterte Confirms Existence of 'Death Squad' in Drug War Testimony

Rodrigo Duterte's recent admission of a 'death squad' during his time as mayor highlights the darker aspects of his controversial drug war, now under investigation for human rights violations.

In a striking revelation during a Senate inquiry, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte admitted to the existence of a "death squad" he utilized while serving as mayor of Davao City. The 79-year-old politician, who has faced international scrutiny for his violent drug war, appeared before lawmakers to defend his actions, stating, “I hate drugs, make no mistake about it.”

Duterte recounted how this squad comprised gangsters rather than police, suggesting he had actively commanded them to eliminate targets. He maintained a defiant tone, asserting his incapacity to apologize for his violent approach to crime. “Do not question my policies because I offer no apologies, no excuses. I did what I had to do, and whether or not you believe it... I did it for my country,” he insisted, reflecting his unwavering conviction in his methods.

Under his administration, the crackdown led to the deaths of an estimated 6,252 individuals, a figure that human rights organizations argue may actually number in the tens of thousands. Many of these killings were described as executed in self-defense by police during encounters with alleged criminals, yet families have consistently disputed such accounts, alleging their loved ones were unjustly targeted.

The UN's High Commissioner for Human Rights previously highlighted the alarming rhetoric surrounding Duterte's campaign, hinting it may have granted police tacit approval to kill. With escalating criticism from global rights groups, Duterte’s legacy remains deeply divisive, symbolizing a larger national issue with drug use, primarily methamphetamine, locally dubbed "shabu".

As he faced victims’ families and political opponents during this inquiry, Duterte doubled down on his previous claims, stating he would not hesitate to act similarly if given another chance to govern. His testimony not only reignites debates over accountability and human rights in the archipelago but also serves as a somber reminder of the drug war's lasting impact on Filipino society.