Context Dispatch
Senate as whole to probe Duterte’s ‘War on Drugs’
Senator Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa may not lead the Senate's investigation into alleged extrajudicial killings during President Rodrigo Duterte's “war on drugs.” Senate President Francis Escudero and Senator Risa Hontiveros, who is currently investigating illegal POGOs, indicated that the Senate might convene as a committee of the whole to facilitate testimony from witnesses and survivors. Recent testimonies in the House probe have implicated Senators dela Rosa and Bong Go in these extrajudicial killings.
More shocking details in OVP, DepED confidential fund usage
Lawmakers have uncovered additional red flags regarding the confidential funds of the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education for 2022 and 2023. The House Blue Ribbon Committee’s investigation revealed extravagant spending patterns, including rental payments for safe houses that exceeded costs for overnight stays in top-tier hotels or monthly rentals in high-end condominiums. Additionally, expenditures related to youth leaders' summits organized by the Philippine Army in collaboration with the Department of Education were flagged for scrutiny.
Malacañang supports new investigation into EJKs
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said Malacañang backs the Philippine National Police's plan to revisit high-profile killings related to former President Duterte’s war on drugs. Bersamin, a former Supreme Court Chief Justice during Duterte’s presidency, said the police's initiative aligns with the Marcos administration's commitment to justice and the rule of law, marking a significant step toward addressing extrajudicial killings.
Israel dismisses ceasefire calls amid rising tensions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected calls for a unilateral ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza, despite pressure from the United States. Netanyahu said a ceasefire would leave Israel vulnerable to threats from the militant group Hezbollah, which has threatened to expand its attacks. The US has intensified its criticism of recent bombings in Beirut and is advocating for increased humanitarian aid to Palestine.
OVP Budget for 2025 Remains Cut
The House Committee on Appropriations has confirmed its decision to cut the 2025 budget for the Office of the Vice President to P733 million, which is significantly lower than the P2.1 billion requested by Vice President Sara Duterte. AKO Bicol Partylist Rep. Elizaldy Co, the committee chairman, said that the P1.3 billion reduction will be redirected to the Department of Health and the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
