Senate probe on Bikoy’s claims set for Friday

MANILA, Philippines — The Senate committee on public order and dangerous drugs will start probing “Bikoy’s” allegations this Friday.

Senator Panfilo Lacson, chair of the committee, said the hearing will take place at 9:30 a.m.

“It will push through once Bikoy confirms his attendance with a sworn statement ready,” Lacson said in a text message.

“In the meantime, we are doing some background investigation and record check on him,” he added.

“Bikoy” is the hooded man in the “Ang Totoong Narcolist” videos, accusing President Rodrigo Duterte’s family and allies of alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade.

On Monday, a man who identified himself as Peter Joemel Advincula appeared in a news conference at the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) office in Pasig City and claimed to be “Bikoy.”

Lacson said his committee would send a formal invitation to Advincula through the IBP “since it was the last known link to him and they may have knowledge of how to relay the invitation to him.”

The senator earlier said the committee would only investigate the issue if Advincula would personally present a sworn statement and evidence to support his accusations. /ee

READ: Lacson’s panel ready to probe ‘Bikoy’s’ claims within the week