Senate probe on PNP-PDEA shootout set on Tuesday

The aftermath of the shootout near Ever Gotesco Mall in Quezon City. Photo from PNP-PIO

MANILA, Philippines — The Senate committee on public order is set to investigate next week the shootout in Quezon City between officers of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

At least two police officers were reportedly killed in a buy-bust operation conducted near a shopping mall along Commonwealth Avenue early Wednesday evening.

Senator  Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, chairman of the committee said, said he will open the probe on Tuesday, March 2.

“I am going to conduct an inquiry in aid of legislation relative to that incident this coming Tuesday,” Dela Rosa said in a text message on Thursday.

“Through our hearing and investigation, we will try to ferret out the truth and give opportunity to all parties involved in this unfortunate incident to explain their side,” he said in a separate statement.

The senator stressed this incident should never happen again most especially between government forces.

“Hopefully, after our hearing, we would be able to determine if there is a need to amend or revise our laws concerning our law enforcement authorities,” Dela Rosa said.

Even mall officials, he said, would be called to the Senate probe.

“Lahat ng involved plus mall officials,” the senator said.

A separate probe on the incident is also being sought in the House of Representatives.

A joint PNP-PDEA board of inquiry will also be formed to probe the incident,  PNP spokesman Brigadier General Ildebrandi Usana earlier said.

PDEA agents on the ground. Photo from PNP-PIO

“The PNP and PDEA both agree and assure the public that the incident, while serious, will in no way affect the continuing operational relationship and coordinations they have long firmed up in the fight against illegal drugs,”  Usana said in a statement.

/MUF