House Quad Committee co-chair and Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. warned former President Rodrigo Duterte not to use foul language during Wednesday’s hearing.
“Our only request here, while we are talking to you this morning, our only request here is that you please respect this Quad Comm hearing by not using vulgar words,” Abante said in a mix of English and Filipino.
The lawmaker underscored his intent to maintain decorum: “If you swear at this Quad Comm hearing, I will make a point of order on you.”
He explained that he had a legal basis to address any disturbance to the hearing’s decorum, citing the Quad Comm’s commitment to a respectful and orderly session.
The House mega panel’s co-chair set a strong precedent for the inquiry into allegations related to the government’s anti-drug campaign.
“Our mission is to seek the truth, and we shall not be swayed from that path… We assure you that our purpose here is to seek the truth, not to pass judgment,” Abante said.
He also took the opportunity to affirm the Quad Comm’s respect for Duterte’s rights as a former president. However, he made it clear that this respect would not shield the former chief executive from tough questions aimed at uncovering accountability for alleged human rights abuses during his administration.
