MANILA, Philippines — Members of the Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives believe that the rising number of people getting killed in anti-illegal drugs operationd of the Philippine National Police (PNP) is not a joke anymore.

The death of grade 11-student Kian Lloyd delos Santos, who was labeled by the police as a drug courier, highlighted the scenario.

This is why the group called on President Rodrigo Duterte to once again suspend the anti-illegal drug operations.

They said the president has done this before when Korean businessman Jee Ick Joo was killed inside Camp Crame.

“Why isn’t this being done now when an innocent 17-year old Filipino has been killed,” said ACT Teachers party list Rep. Antonio Tinio.

The president, however, does not seem to be inclined to stop said project.

“But I will not change my policy. There will be war against drugs because I have to protect. That’s my oath of office. The mass of population … I have that sworn duty to defend the people and protect the republic,” said Duterte.

Meanwhile, the PNP has this to say regarding the matter.

“Five resolutions were filed in the Lower House calling for the investigation on the increasing number of deaths of suspected drug personalities,’ said PNP Chief Director General Ronald ‘Bato dela Rosa.

“If the committee can conduct public hearings on important issues for me this issue should be investigated this is more worst issue compared to others,” said Bayan Muna Party List Rep. Carlos Zarate. — Grace Casin | UNTV News & Rescue

WATCH: Pres. Duterte, nanindigang tuloy ang anti-drug war sa kabila ng mga pambabatikos

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