Philippine House panel to release report on illegal drugs, POGO findings

Jenny Ortiz December 9, 2024

SiGMA news

The Philippine House Quad Committee (QuadComm) has announced plans to release a “progress report” summarising finding from 12 extensive hearings on extrajudicial killings (EJK), dangerous drugs, and illegal activities linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). The report, chaired by Representative Robert Ace Barbers, is expected to be unveiled before the House of Representatives adjourns for its Christmas break on 18 December.

According to a local report, Barbers highlighted the interconnected nature of these issues, noting that the consolidated report aims to address the significant overlap between EJKs, drug-related crimes, and illegal POGO operations. Throughout the hearings, 18 remedial bills have been drafted to strengthen policies and mitigate future crimes. The report will also explore accountability among government personnel implicated in corruption and anomalies.

The QuadComm comprises four House committees: Dangerous Drugs, Public Order and Safety, Human Rights, and Public Accounts. Barbers confirmed that additional hearings are scheduled, and discussions will continue in January 2025 after the congressional recess.

Investigating “narco vloggers” and POGO links

In a parallel development, Barbers has called on the Philippine National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to probe so-called “narco vloggers” allegedly connected to illegal POGO activities. These vloggers are accused of disseminating misinformation and defamatory content for financial gain.

In a radio interview, Barbers requested metadata analysis and a review of the vloggers’ activities, which he believes could reveal links to POGO-related operations. According to Barbers, these activities contravene the Cybercrime Prevention Act and undermine the honour and integrity of individuals.

The lawmaker emphasised that accountability extends beyond these vloggers to any entities, including politicians, using digital platforms to spread falsehoods or defamatory content. He urged the NBI to take decisive action to curb these practices, stressing that violations should lead to charges regardless of the perpetrator’s status.

Addressing broader legislative concerns

The upcoming QuadComm report will not only delve into these specific issues but also recommend measures to combat corruption and reinforce oversight. Barbers dismissed claims linking him and his brother, Surigao del Norte Governor Robert Lyndon Barbers, to a recent Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) drug bust as “fake news.” He reiterated the committee’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

Separately, Barbers clarified that the investigation into vloggers would not impact impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte. He said that the QuadComm’s focus remains firmly on its mandate, ensuring the integrity of the legislative process.

Additional reports from House Committee

Meanwhile, the House Committee on Good Government is also preparing to release its own report before the year-end break. This reflects a broader commitment within the Philippine Congress to address pressing national issues and provide actionable solutions.

As the legislative session progresses, QuadComm’s findings are anticipated to play a role in shaping policies to address systemic challenges related to illegal drugs, gaming operations, and broader human rights concerns.

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