Panelo says lawmakers' questions to Duterte lack context and understanding

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's legal counsel, Salvador Panelo, stated that lawmakers' questions during a recent hearing lacked proper context. He noted a disconnect between Duterte and the questioning lawmakers, suggesting they did not understand each other. Panelo clarified that Duterte accepted responsibility for his drug war policies, asserting that any legal consequences should be directed at him if mistakes were made. He emphasized that Duterte's orders to police were lawful, allowing for lethal force if suspects resisted arrest. Duterte acknowledged that his acceptance of responsibility could be interpreted as an admission of guilt. He stated he ordered the drug campaign, which has been linked to thousands of deaths, but Panelo argued that accusations against him remain unproven.