Palace: No need to probe Duterte ‘murder’ claim

Malacañang on Wednesday brushed off the need for an investigation on President Rodrigo Duterte’s claim of killing criminals in the past.

“It’s already been under scrutiny in the past, but it has already been addressed as far as we know,” Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a Palace briefing.

Abella was reacting to the United Nation’s High Commissioner on Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein’s statement, saying Philippine authorities should investigate President Rodrigo Duterte for murder, after he said that he had personally killed suspected criminals.

READ: UN rights chief: Investigate Duterte for killings

In a previous speech, Duterte said he used to ride a big bike when he was still a city mayor patrolling the streets.

He admitted he had killed at least three “hostage-takers” who were responsible for taking hostage and killing an Australian missionary.

READ: Duterte: ‘I killed only to protect people’

Abella clarified the President’s statement, saying it was a legitimate police operation.

“Again, let me just remind one and all, that the incident referred to by the President was actually covered by media and it was legitimate police and action and that the UN Commissioner is free to express his views regarding that matter. But we ourselves have already attended to the matter at hand,” he said.

Asked if the government would file a formal letter of response to Hussein’s comments, Abella said “It’s his opinion. Basically, he’s just airing his opinion regarding the matter.” CDG