Rodrigo Duterte tells police to execute son if criminal

Rodrigo Duterte tells police to execute son if criminal

Rodrigo Duterte has ordered police to carry out the standard procedures of his controversial war on drugs campaign even if his son is found guilty of criminal activities.

The Philippines president sparked international criticism for his strong anti-drugs stance, that has seen more than 9,000 civilians killed for links to drug dealing and use.

His eldest son, Paolo, has been accused as being a member of a Chinese organised crime syndicate and allegedly overseeing a drug-smuggling and drug lord protection scheme.

'My orders are to kill you if you are caught, and I will protect the police who kill you,' Mr Duterte said he told his 42-year-old son.

Paolo faced the Philippines Senate earlier this month accused of being involved with the triad gang, allegations he described as 'baseless' and founded upon 'rumours'.

He allegedly helped facilitate more than a tonne of ice being shipped into the country which has been ravaged by abuse and addiction. 

In 2016, a retired policeman and former criminal accused Paolo of being the mastermind behind the operation. The claims were never proven.

During the hearing, he was asked by opposition Senator Antonio Trillane to remove his shirt and display a large tattoo on his back that allegedly proved he was a member of a Chinese faction.

Paolo acknowledged he has a tattoo on his back but refused to remove his shirt and show the hearing. 

Senator Trillane also produced a report by an anti-smuggling group that claims they received intelligence that Paolo was also involved in the illegal importation of luxury cars and other items. 

His father was asked about the case during a speech to workers at his palace in Manila Wednesday, where he confirmed he would hold his family to the same standards and would have no problem killing them.

President Duterte says he wants police to carry out normal procedures should his son be found guilty, to remain consistent and 'so the people can't say anything against me'.

'That's better… so I can say to people, 'There, you keep talking. That's my son's corpse'.'

His officials have accused Senator Trillanes of holding secret bank accounts to mask his wealth, and President Duterte believes their rivalry will lead to a powerful conclusion to one of their career's.

'I will destroy him or he will destroy me,' Duterte said on Wednesday.

Senator Trillanes says he plans to leave politics when his term finishes in 2019 over fears for his safety.

'My life is at stake here,' he said.