Photo credit: Senate PH

Former President Rodrigo Duterte openly acknowledged the existence of a so-called "death squad during a recent Senate appearance. Duterte, known for his tough stance on crime during his time in office, didn't hold back as he confirmed that he had his own group tasked with carrying out extrajudicial killings but with a twist

According to Duterte, these death squad members weren't law enforcement officers, as some might have expected. Instead, he described them as gangsters whom he would allegedly instruct to eliminate individuals involved in serious crimes. In his own words, he admitted, "I have a death squad, but not the police. These are gangsters I would order, ‘Kill that person, if you don't, I'll kill you now’"

This revelation sheds light on Duterte's infamous war on crime in Davao City, where he once served as mayor for years. Rumors circulated about vigilante-style justice in the city where crime was said to be met with deadly consequences. "People in Davao know," Duterte said, "If you commit a serious crime, there's a place for you

While some may view this as Duterte's attempt to clarify his stance on extrajudicial killings others see it as a concerning admission. His statement raises questions about the extent of these operations and the blurred lines between vigilantes and law enforcers during his leadership.

What's your take? Was this a bold move by Duterte to address crime. or a dangerous precedent for justice in the country?