Duterte admits to controversial tactics in Senate drug war hearing

Former President Rodrigo Duterte appeared at a Senate hearing on October 28, 2024, where he admitted to encouraging police to provoke drug suspects into violent confrontations to justify killings. This admission aligns with his previous statements supporting aggressive anti-crime measures. Duterte also confirmed the existence of a death squad, stating it was not composed of police but rather gangsters. He claimed this group was formed to combat crime in Davao City, where he served as mayor. His remarks have raised concerns about potential legal consequences, as they may strengthen cases against him in ongoing investigations by the International Criminal Court regarding extrajudicial killings during his presidency.