[Trending Now] Senator Dick Gordon Skeptical of Lascañas Backtracking of Statement and Allegations Against Duterte

Chairman of the justice panel Senator Richard Gordon voiced out his doubts about SPO3 Arthur Lascañas' denial of the alleged existence of the Davao Death Squad and consequent retraction of the statement. On Monday, Gordon rejected the idea of reopening the Senate justice probe on the Davao Death squad over Lascañas' claims.

"How do you know that he's telling the truth? How do you know which one is the truth? As they say 'fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me,'" said Gordon.

After the senate inquiry held over the Davao Death Squad where Edgar Matobato stood as witness, Gordon ruled that the drug-related killings were not sponsored by the Davao government in any way, saying Matobato's statements held no weight due to the lack of evidence.

Lascañas, who also stood as a witness during the inquiry, refuted the claims of Matobato.

However, Lascañas retracted his earlier sworn statements. Lascañas appeared to the media accompanied by lawyers from the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG).

On the recent statement of Lascañas, he affirmed that the death squad does exist and was led by then Davao city mayor and now President, Rodrigo Duterte. According to Lascañas, Duterte ordered the assault of several people including Jun Pala, a radio broadcaster.

"He has already appeared before the Senate and he said the Davao Death Squad did not exist. In fact, he said it's falsehood and therefore why should I call the committee again? How do I know if he is telling the truth this time?" said Gordon.

Gordon also wondered if it was just a concidence that on the same day of De Lima's supposed arrest for drug-related charges, Lascañas decides to retract his statement.

"Sometimes, it's quite amazing that at this particular time- I don't know whats happening to the De Lima case but it's been said that she's going to be arrested today- all of a sudden there are a couple of successive statements made by certain personalities that are really highfalutin."

De Lima, on the other hand, was surprised according to her over the confession of Lascañas, saying "It was a hair-raising thing. Hindi ko inaasahan na lumantad si Lascañas."

Which side do you believe? Do you think Lascañas is telling the truth? Tell us your opinion in the comment section.

Source: TNP , AsianPolicy