Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, a former police chief and strong advocate for law enforcement, has urged the House Quad Committee (QuadComm) to prioritize investigating the alarming increase in criminal activities rather than detaining current and former officers who serve the country with dedication.
“QuadComm should focus on why criminals are becoming so bold, even shooting at police officers. They shouldn’t target hardworking police officers,” Bato said passionately.
Call for a Crime-Centered Investigation
Dela Rosa highlighted his concern over the rising confidence among criminals, particularly drug lords, pushers, and other lawbreakers. He pointed to incidents where criminals have become unafraid of the authorities, suggesting that this boldness stems from how QuadComm handles its inquiries.
“Criminals, drug pushers, and drug lords are growing bolder because they no longer fear the authorities. Why? Because the QuadComm is putting pressure on the very people tasked to stop them,” Bato said.
He also linked this trend to the increasing number of drug addicts and crimes like carnapping, blaming it on the weakened stance of authorities against offenders.
The Case of Wilkins Villanueva
Dela Rosa referred to the recent detention of former Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) chief Wilkins Villanueva by QuadComm. Villanueva was held in contempt for allegedly refusing to answer questions regarding a warrantless arrest that took place nearly 20 years ago.
The incident arose from the arrest of Jed Sy, the wife of alleged drug personality Allan Sy. Villanueva denied involvement in the case, but his refusal to provide certain details led to his detention.
Duterte’s Anti-Drug Campaign Under Scrutiny
The QuadComm has been deeply involved in investigating controversies linked to former President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, including deaths allegedly tied to the operations and crimes associated with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
On December 18, QuadComm recommended filing charges against several individuals, including Duterte, Dela Rosa, and former Senator Bong Go. These recommendations have drawn criticism from Dela Rosa, who claims the probe is politically motivated and may even be used against them in the International Criminal Court (ICC).
“Criminals are thriving because we are busy oppressing the authorities instead of strengthening them,” Bato stressed.
A Plea for Action
In his closing remarks, Dela Rosa reiterated his appeal for QuadComm to shift its focus. “Let’s investigate the real problems—why crimes are increasing and why criminals are unafraid. It’s time to prioritize the safety of our citizens over politicized inquiries,” he concluded.
