Philippines forms task force to investigate extrajudicial killings during drug war

The Philippine Department of Justice has created a task force to investigate alleged extrajudicial killings during the Duterte administration's war on drugs. This decision follows pressure from lawmakers and was formalized under Department Order No. 778 on November 4. The task force will be led by a senior assistant state prosecutor and will include members from the National Prosecution Service. It is tasked with probing cases, building evidence, and filing charges against those involved in the killings. Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon stated that the task force will also review previously dismissed cases. He emphasized the importance of accountability and indicated that they would start with smaller cases to build a foundation for further investigations.