Officials surrender following Philippine President's list

Almost 50 Filipino officials, including mayors and police officers, have surrendered in response to being called out by President Rodrigo Duterte as being connected to illegal drug trade.

Following the name-and-shame speech by President Duterte on Sunday, in which over 150 officials were called out by name for alleged links, 18 mayors and 31 police officials have turned themselves in, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesman Dionard Carlos told CNN on Monday.

Duterte had given those named 24 hours to surrender, a deadline which has now expired.

Carlos said more are expected to report in to the police later on Monday, CNN reported.

Duterte, who took office at the end of June, has been aggressively pursuing an anti-crime agenda -- with a special focus on ridding the country of illegal drugs.

CNN Philippines named Lorna Mupas, a judge, and former mayor Rasmyiah Macabago as among those who have surrendered.

While some are retired, many on his list were active officers, police said.

Duterte insisted those accused on Sunday have access to a fair trial.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer's "Kill List", regarded as one of the most accurate records of the killings of suspected drug dealers by police and vigilantes, recorded the deaths of 524 people suspected of drug crimes between June 30, the day Duterte assumed office, and August 4, CNN added.

--IANS

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