Photo credit: Bong Go

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has strongly denied allegations that former President Rodrigo Duterte issued any illegal orders during his administration’s war on drugs. He also refuted claims of a reward system for police officers involved in killing drug suspects, calling these accusations “baseless.”

Speaking to reporters on Monday, October 14, Go emphasized that Duterte, a former prosecutor, was well-versed in the law and would never direct anyone to engage in unlawful activities. “President Duterte is a lawyer and a former prosecutor. He wouldn’t give illegal orders, nor did I receive any,” Go asserted.

Go’s comments came in response to an affidavit submitted by Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Royina Garma during a House Quad Committee hearing on October 11. Garma’s affidavit had reignited rumors of a reward system within the police force, allegedly incentivizing the killing of drug suspects.

“Even if such an order had been given to me, I wouldn’t have followed it. I would never agree to be asked to do something illegal,” Go added.

As for the supposed reward system, Senator Go dismissed the allegations outright. He insisted that Duterte’s support for uniformed personnel during his administration was genuine, but it had nothing to do with any form of bounty or rewards for extrajudicial actions.

“Former President Duterte fully supported the police and military, but through proper means,” Go said. “In fact, in 2018, he doubled their salaries. That’s how he showed his support.”

Go further emphasized that Duterte’s support extended beyond financial backing, highlighting the former president’s visits to troops, both those wounded and those killed in action. He added that Duterte provided various forms of aid to uniformed personnel throughout his presidency.

By dismissing these accusations, Go continues to defend Duterte’s controversial anti-drug campaign, reiterating that the former president’s orders always remained within legal bounds.