MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government stated on Friday that it is not directly cooperating with the International Criminal Court (ICC), despite a request from the tribunal for assistance in protecting witnesses in the ongoing case against former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Speaking at a press conference, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Department of Justice (DOJ) is providing support to witnesses in order to deliver justice to victims of the previous administration’s anti-drug campaign. Castro clarified that while the ICC initiated the request, the government’s priority remains the protection and legal assistance of Filipinos.
“There is indirect cooperation, but our focus is on helping victims and witnesses who seek justice,” Castro said.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla reported on Wednesday that the ICC contacted the DOJ’s Witness Protection Program (WPP) regarding the security of individuals linked to the crimes against humanity case filed against Duterte. However, he noted that the ICC had not submitted an official request.
The DOJ confirmed that it would provide assistance to witnesses, provided they fall under Philippine jurisdiction. When asked whether the DOJ’s actions had the backing of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Castro said the President is committed to ensuring justice for victims of the drug war.
Castro also cited the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), which pledged to support all victims of human rights violations, regardless of jurisdiction.
Despite these developments, the administration said President Marcos has not held discussions on rejoining the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the ICC. The Philippines officially withdrew from the ICC in 2019 under Duterte’s leadership, following the court’s investigation into the administration’s anti-drug operations.
In March, President Marcos declined to comment on the possibility of rejoining the tribunal, saying the issue had not yet been formally discussed. His remarks came after Duterte’s arrest and detention in the Netherlands on charges of crimes against humanity.
The ICC maintains that it retains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed in the Philippines between November 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019, during the country’s period as a member of the court.
According to the Philippine News Agency, the Australian government has been informed of Duterte’s application for interim release to an unnamed third country. However, Australia has not agreed to host Duterte if his application is approved and is not considering doing so.