MySiteEdu.com - Download Free Ebook And Learn by Ebooks.Download Free Ebook And Learn by Ebooks - MySiteEdu.com. Filling the world with knowledge and understanding.MANILA, Philippines - President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday launched a full-scale war against illegal drugs after warning he could behead suspects in the Middle East and Asia.
Duterte, speaking to media on the sidelines of the “Celebrating the Republic” festival, pledged to eliminate “not only the drug menace but also all those who are in it.”
“I am now announcing a war on drugs. I am warning the public to stop taking illegal drugs because the penalty will be death. I can even go to the Middle East and cut your head off if you are involved in drugs,” Duterte said.
Duterte's tough stand on illegal drugs has drawn the ire of critics and prompted accusations of extrajudicial killings. He has repeatedly dismissed such accusations, accusing his opponents of exaggerating the situation.
While Duterte will focus on fighting drugs, he is now pursuing a third term and the campaign has sparked fears that he may run unopposed.
Malacañang dismissed reports that Duterte would ignore the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) elections schedule and run for a third term.
“Not true,” presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said when asked if Duterte would seek a third term.
The elections body had set June 26 as the last day to file candidacy for candidates seeking to run in the May 9 polls.
Duterte had said that he would not seek a third term, but he has not issued an official statement that he is not seeking a third term.
Duterte admitted that he is considering running for a third term and that he could potentially win, despite the drug war's negative effect on his administration.
“I could (run for a third term). It's very possible that I will win,” he said.
He then reiterated that he will not seek a third term.
“I am saying if I win, I will give up on my third term. I am aware of what kind of system we have in the Philippines,” Duterte added.
Last week, Duterte said that he would run for another six-year term and pledged to pursue peace with the communist rebels.
“My sixth year ac619d1d87
Related links: