Manila, Philippines – Malacañang has reaffirmed the legality of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest on March 11, citing the validity of the International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant despite ongoing debates about the tribunal’s jurisdiction over the Philippines.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin clarified that while the Philippines officially withdrew from the ICC in 2019, the country continues to honor its obligations to the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol). This means that an ICC-issued “red notice” through Interpol remains a request the Philippine government may acknowledge.
The Palace’s firm stance underscores the complex legal and diplomatic considerations surrounding Duterte’s case. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has repeatedly asserted that the ICC lacks authority over the Philippines, arguing that the country’s judicial system is fully capable of handling legal proceedings.
The ICC’s probe into Duterte’s controversial anti-drug campaign, which resulted in over 6,200 deaths of drug suspects, remains a divisive issue. Despite his arrest, Duterte has previously expressed willingness to face trial and serve time if found guilty.
As legal and political debates continue, the former president’s case highlights the broader implications of international law on national sovereignty and human rights accountability.
