Ex-PCSO chief detained in California after Duterte drug war testimony
MANILA, Philippines (Updated 6:28 p.m.) — Former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office chief Royina Garma and her daughter have been detained in San Francisco as the Philippine government pursues its investigation into the controversial drug war under the watch of former president Rodrigo Duterte.
The Department of Justice confirmed Tuesday that Garma and her daughter, Angelica Garma Vilela, were taken into custody on November 7.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has instructed immigration authorities to arrange for Garma's return to the Philippines.
“The details of the arrest and detention may be sought from the PNP and DILG as they have the complete records,” Justice Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano said in a statement sent to reporters.
At a press conference in Malacañang later on Tuesday, November 12, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla disclosed that Garma's U.S. visa has been canceled during her trip, correcting the earlier report from the DOJ that she was arrested.
READ: With US visa canceled, ex-PCSO chief Garma to be deported
"She has a canceled visa. As far as I know, her and her daughter's visas were canceled," Remulla said.
"We don't even know why Garma's visa was canceled. Apparently, the US flagged her, and their visas were revoked. Even her daughter was denied entry, and both of them were sent back here," he added.
Who is Garma? Garma, a retired police officer who served in Davao City, Duterte's home turf, recently emerged as a key witness in a House of Representatives inquiry into drug war operations during the Duterte administration.
In a testimony last month, she detailed the "Davao Model," describing a reward system that incentivized police officers. They can receive either a commendation, funding for "planned operations,” or reimbursements for operational costs.
At a press conference on Tuesday, Rep. Robert Barbers (Surigao del Norte) expressed surprised at the development, noting her recent cooperation with authorities.
“She was there during our last hearing, accompanied by former Colonel Leonardo. [She] was also also there, represented by lawyers. So, we have no idea if she had left the country,” Barbers said in a mix of English and Filipino.
Garma faces allegations of involvement in multiple deaths, including the 2020 killing of PCSO board secretary Wesley Barayuga and the 2016 deaths of three alleged Chinese drug lords.
Zooming out. The Philippine government officially acknowledges approximately 6,000 deaths in its drug war operations under the previous administration.
International human rights organizations, however, estimate the toll could be as high as 30,000, primarily affecting small-scale drug users and dealers.
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