Retired police colonel and former PCSO general manager Royina Garma has reversed her previous statements, implicating former President Rodrigo Duterte in the extrajudicial killings (EJKs) that took place during the nationwide war on drugs.
In an affidavit submitted to the House Quad Committee, Garma directly named Duterte as the mastermind behind the controversial anti-drug campaign, which included a reward system for EJKs.
Garma’s testimony provided new insights into the implementation of Duterte’s drug war, surprising the committee.
She revealed key details involving both Duterte and his former aide, now Senator Bong Go.
Garma detailed a 2016 meeting with Duterte where he sought an official to lead the drug war.
Garma recommended her PNPA upperclassman, Police Colonel Edilberto Leonardo, who was then assigned to the CIDG.
Leonardo was tasked with forming a specialized task force after meeting with Duterte.
Leonardo created a proposal, which he submitted to Duterte through Senator Go.
Leonardo’s team later implemented the plan, with Garma acting as an intermediary.
Garma also disclosed the existence of a reward system, with funds channeled through the bank accounts of former detainee Peter Parungo.
She further revealed that Leonardo reported all fatalities from police operations directly to then-Special Assistant to the President, ensuring that operational expenses were reimbursed.
According to Garma, Leonardo decided which drug personalities were included or removed from the target list.
She also confirmed overhearing discussions about operations at the Davao penal colony.
Garma expressed her willingness to provide further testimony regarding EJKs linked to the illegal drug trade.