Former President Rodrigo Duterte and Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa. (MALACAÑANG file photo)
MANILA, Philippines — Former President Rodrigo Duterte’s attendance at the Senate’s drug war probe is now in limbo, at least according to Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel.
The investigation is set on October 28 or on Monday next week.
Pimentel, who will preside over the probe, told reporters in a text message on Thursday that Duterte’s attendance is still uncertain.
“Medyo alangain na daw. Pero better to just wait for Monday para actual nating malaman kung nandoon ba o wala,” said Pimentel when he was asked if the former president had already confirmed his attendance to the public hearing.
(They say it’s now uncertain, but it’s better to just wait for Monday so we can actually know if he is there or not.)
But in a separate press conference also on Thursday, Sen. Bato dela Rosa — a close friend and ally of the Dutertes – said he was able to talk with the former president last week.
He is certain that ex-chief executive would attend the Senate hearing.
“Sure ako. Sure ako. Mag attend siya. Sure ako,” dela Rosa said repeatedly.
(I am sure. I am sure he will attend. I am sure.)
Senate President Chiz Escudero, for his part, previously dismissed fears that the investigation would be biased.
He said he fully trusts that Pimentel would handle the probe well.
The Senate chief said he’s expecting that the chamber would give due respect to Duterte should he physically attend the probe, given his previous post as the country’s head.