MANILA — Senator Risa Hontiveros has called on the Philippine government to fully cooperate with the International Criminal Court (ICC) in its investigation into alleged extrajudicial killings during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs.

In a statement, Hontiveros stressed the need for justice for victims like Kian delos Santos, Carl Angelo Arnaiz, and Reynaldo “Kulot” de Guzman, and urged the government to fulfill its obligations not only under international treaties but also for the families long clamoring for accountability.

“Kung magkaroon man ng pag-uusap sa pagitan ng ating gobyerno at ng ICC, makita sana ng gobyerno na kailangan nitong tumulong sa imbestigasyon, ‘di lang dahil sa treaty obligations natin, kundi lalo na para sa mga pamilya,” Hontiveros said.

Remulla hinted possible cooperation, Bersamin maintains status quo

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla hinted at possible cooperation with the ICC, signaling a shift in tone from the administration’s previous refusal to engage.

“We will talk to them soon in a very well-defined manner, in the spirit of comity,” Remulla said, acknowledging that “there are certain areas we can cooperate” but emphasized that clear boundaries must be established.

Remulla also revealed that ICC representatives have been entering the country and maintaining contact with human rights groups. He clarified that cooperation with international tribunals remains permissible under Philippine law.

However, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin maintained the government’s stance that the Philippines has withdrawn from the ICC and does not recognize its jurisdiction. In a briefing, Bersamin reiterated that while the country will honor requests coursed through Interpol, the administration remains firm in its position against the ICC probe.

“We have withdrawn from the ICC, and that withdrawal is already in effect. But if the ICC makes a request through Interpol, we will respond positively because we benefit from Interpol in other cases,” Bersamin explained.

The mixed signals from top officials highlight the continuing tension between domestic and international accountability for alleged human rights abuses during the Duterte administration’s drug war.

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