Photo credit: Bong Go

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go made it clear at the October 28 Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing that uncovering the truth behind the Duterte administration's war on illegal drugs is the goal—without turning the session into a political battlefield.

“We’re here to uncover the truth. We want the facts to come out. After all, the truth stands on its own and needs no defense,” Go stated. His commitment to transparency even prompted him to file a Senate resolution pushing for an in-depth review of the anti-drug campaign.

Go underscored that the hearing, led by Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, will be fair and focused, with no intention of creating a “trial by publicity” or subjecting anyone to public shaming. “We want those invited here to speak freely, without fear—truth only, no politics,” he emphasized.

For Go, sharing the results and benefits of the former administration’s anti-drug drive is vital to giving Filipinos a complete picture. He pointed to the widespread drug problem that existed prior to Rodrigo Duterte’s presidency, citing how entrenched illegal drug syndicates were even within police ranks. He explained that a strict approach was essential to tackling the crisis, which was one reason Duterte was able to win the presidency.

Go highlighted several achievements from Duterte’s campaign, including the declaration of 55% of barangays as drug-free zones and the seizure of over PHP 76 billion in illegal drugs. According to him, these efforts garnered massive public support, with 79% of Filipinos standing behind the administration’s anti-drug agenda.

To wrap up, Senator Go called on both chambers of Congress to use this investigation as an opportunity to ensure no abuses occur in future anti-drug efforts. "Let’s use this investigation to make sure no abuses happen as we unite against the drug problem," Go concluded.