Philippine Government rejects ICC’s involvement in Duterte’s interim release

DAVAO CITY—The Philippine government has reiterated its refusal to cooperate with the International Criminal Court (ICC) regarding the technical conditions for former president Rodrigo Duterte’s interim release.

This statement follows an earlier remark by ICC spokesperson Fadi El Abdallah, who clarified that the ICC judges alone hold the authority to order Duterte’s release.

El Abdallah explained in an interview on “The Newsmaker” on NewsWatch Plus on March 24 that the Philippines, as a sovereign nation, has the right to decide its own national justice mechanisms, and the release of a suspect can only be ordered by the ICC’s judges after reviewing the circumstances.

He further explained that interim release may be considered only if certain conditions are met, such as ensuring that the suspect appears before the chamber and does not interfere with investigations or threaten witnesses. If the conditions cannot be met, the request for release can be denied.

In response, a spokesperson from the Philippine Palace confirmed on Thursday that the government will not participate in any processes related to the ICC’s involvement in Duterte’s case, reaffirming the country’s stance on non-cooperation with the ICC.

“We are not part of the International Criminal Court, and we will not take cognizance of any technical conditions they impose,” the spokesperson stated.

ICC Photo release

The Palace also raised concerns about the potential consequences of cooperation with the ICC, including the possibility of freezing Duterte’s assets. “Would the Duterte family also want us to cooperate with the ICC so that all their assets, whether hidden or not, can be tracked down with our assistance?” the spokesperson asked rhetorically.

The statement follows the ICC’s calls for Duterte’s interim release as he faces charges related to his controversial anti-drug campaign, which the international tribunal has classified as crimes against humanity. The Philippines, under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, has consistently rejected the ICC’s jurisdiction over the country’s legal matters, particularly in relation to Duterte’s war on drugs.

“The Marcos administration has consistently rejected the ICC’s interference in our domestic affairs,” the Palace official said. “Our focus remains on upholding our sovereignty and protecting our judicial system from foreign influence.”

Meanwhile, Lean Jimenez, a representative of the victims of Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, expressed firm opposition to Duterte’s potential release. On the occasion of Duterte’s birthday, Jimenez said they would not light candles in his honor. “Instead, we will be remembering the victims who can no longer celebrate their birthdays, those who lost their lives and loved ones under the brutal drug war,” Jimenez said.

Jimenez further emphasized that various activities would be organized to honor the memory of the victims, calling attention to the ongoing struggles of their families and the need for justice. “We will not let their voices be silenced, and we will continue to call for justice on behalf of the countless victims,” Jimenez added.

The Philippine government’s refusal to cooperate with the ICC, coupled with the planned activities of the victims’ families, highlights the deep divisions in the country over Duterte’s controversial legacy and the calls for accountability for the alleged abuses during his administration’s war on drugs.

The situation remains a point of contention between those seeking justice for the victims and those who continue to support Duterte.