Leaders of the House of Representatives are pushing for the formation of a four-committee panel that would comprehensively look into Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGOs) and its associated crimes, illegal drugs, and the Duterte administration’s drug war.
Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. on Monday through a privilege speech called to combine separate ongoing inquiries by three committees.
Two other House members, Manila Rep. Joel Chua and Quezon City Rep. Patrick Michael Vargas, on Monday filed Resolution 1843 proposing a fusion of the inquiries by the three committees: dangerous drugs, public order and safety, and human rights.
A fourth member, Gerville Luistro of Batangas, suggested during Monday’s plenary session that the Committee on Public Accounts be included in the proposed multi-committee investigating panel.
“The complex yet interrelated nature of the issues surrounding public order, dangerous drugs, and human rights violations demonstrates the unique benefits of a collaborative approach that only a joint investigation can provide. (This) will enable us to conduct a more inclusive and thorough examination of these interlocking issues,” Gonzales said.
“It will allow us to invite resource persons who can provide valuable insights across multiple areas of concern. This coordinated effort will ensure that our findings are comprehensive and that our legislative recommendations are practical and encompassing,” he added.
Tags: House of Representatives, Congress, probe, inquiry, investigation, War on Drugs, drug war, Duterte, POGOs, Philippines, news
