Screengrab from Congress PH

In a heated exchange on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, former President Rodrigo Duterte and ex-Senator Leila de Lima crossed paths again, reigniting their long-standing conflict during a House quad committee hearing on the war on drugs. The tension between the two was palpable, especially after Duterte’s statements about his controversial anti-drug campaign and alleged "death squad" drew a fiery response from De Lima.

The former senator, visibly disturbed by Duterte's comments, didn't hold back in addressing what she perceived as dishonesty. “Hindi nga niya po masabi 'yung pangalan ko. Ayaw niya pong kilalanin kung sino 'yung dating Commission on Human Rights chairperson... He's lying when he said he does not know Leila de Lima,” De Lima asserted, pointing out how Duterte had previously made numerous public remarks attacking her.

According to De Lima, Duterte’s claim that he was unfamiliar with her rang especially hollow. “Kilala ako, kilalang-kilala ako ng dating mayor ng Davao, ng dating pangulo,” she emphasized, firmly stating, “So he is lying.”

The exchange escalated to the point that some witnesses noted Duterte appearing as if he was ready to physically confront De Lima, an image that added an even sharper edge to the already intense scene. This latest confrontation serves as another chapter in their turbulent relationship, underscoring the deep personal and political animosities sparked by Duterte’s war on drugs.