Many of its findings, however, support and expand upon previous investigations of the drug war by reporters and independent human rights monitors. The police commander said he agreed to talk because he was upset that authorities are targeting only petty drug suspects. The fresh claims come amid growing criticism of the drug war. In a subsequent interview, Lascanas said that for over a decade he was paid for carrying out the liquidation of drug suspects and criminals. The Church's initial reluctance to criticise Duterte's drug war was prompted by a desire to "give him a chance" when he took office, said one of the priests.

Source: Bangkok Post April 18, 2017 19:41 UTC