In a recent online press conference, Vice President Sara Duterte issued a challenge to Arturo Lascañas, the self-confessed hitman of the Davao Death Squad, to file murder charges against her. Lascañas had alleged that Duterte was involved in the group during her time as vice mayor and mayor of Davao.
Lascañas further claimed that Duterte was the one who coined the term “Oplan Tokhang” when she was mayor and had ordered the former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, to carry out the controversial anti-drug campaign.
Without explicitly mentioning Lascañas’ name, Duterte mentioned that a witness had implicated her in Oplan Tokhang, the Davao Death Squad, and incidents of murder and extrajudicial killings in Davao City. She dismissed these allegations as a “new script” fabricated against her.
Duterte believes that her name is being dragged into the issue to draw attention from the International Criminal Court (ICC). She pointed out that it was only after she was elected as vice president and faced accusations at the ICC that suddenly a witness emerged against her.
In addition to the timing, Duterte sees the ICC’s investigation into extrajudicial killings and other crimes related to the drug war as an infringement on the country’s sovereignty and a disrespect to the Filipino people and the Philippines as a whole.
Duterte challenged Lascañas and those supporting him to file murder charges against her in a local court, rather than relying on the ICC. By doing so, she seeks to address the allegations within the jurisdiction of the Philippines.
Former senator Antonio Trillanes 4th had previously claimed that Duterte “approved” the continuation of Oplan Tokhang during her tenure as Davao mayor. These allegations, combined with Lascañas’ claims, have prompted ACT-Teachers party-list Rep. Francisca Castro to call for an investigation into Duterte’s involvement in the drug war.
Castro argues that Vice President Duterte’s refusal to cooperate with the ICC investigation suggests her potential involvement in the drug killings, not just her father’s. She also urged the House leadership to scrutinize how funds were utilized during the administration of former president Rodrigo Duterte.
As the situation unfolds, it is essential to approach these allegations with an open mind and allow for a fair and thorough investigation to take place. Vice President Duterte’s challenge to file charges locally demonstrates her commitment to addressing these accusations within the legal framework of the Philippines.
It remains to be seen how this challenge will be received and whether further investigations will shed light on the truth behind these allegations. As the international community watches, it is crucial to respect the legal processes and the sovereignty of the Philippines while seeking justice and accountability for all parties involved.
Source: The Manila Times
