Hearing retired policeman Arthur Lascanas’ confession on the Davao Death Squad (DDS) is an indication of the Senate’s independence, according to deputy minority leader Sen. Bam Aquino.

​​“The Senate should not shirk from pursuing the truth. Kailangan malaman ng taumbayan ang buong katotohanan sa isyung ito,” said Sen. Bam, who was among 10 senators who voted to hear Lascanas’ claim.

​​During his previous Senate appearance last year, Lascanas denied the claim of Edgar Matobato regarding the existence of the DDS.

​​However, Lascanas retracted his statement last Feb. 20, saying the DDS indeed exists and former Davao City mayor and now President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the killings.

 ​​It was also revealed that Lascanas wrote a confession in 2015, detailing all his knowledge about the DDS.

 ​​“These are heavy allegations against the president and it is our duty as an independent body to investigate,” said Sen. Bam.

​Sen. Bam also wanted Lascanas to explain why he is changing his story.

​​“Gusto natin malaman kung ano ang kaniyang  rason sa pagbabago ng kuwento at bakit siya umaamin sa mga nagawang krimen,” the senator said.

​​However, Sen. Bam said perjury will be the least of Lascanas’ worries as he admitted committing several murders when he recanted his testimony.

Lascanas will face the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, headed by Sen. Panfilo Lacson, on Monday (March 6).