Government will not object if Duterte surrenders to ICC
Cena de Guzman-Trinidad November 13, 2024 at 09:06 PM
MANILA, Philippines – Former President Rodrigo Duterte has urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) to expedite its investigation into his administration’s bloody war on drugs.
During the 11th public hearing of the House Quad Committee, Duterte stated, “I am asking the ICC to hurry up, and if possible, they can come here and start their investigation tomorrow,” expressing frustration over the prolonged delay. “This issue has been left hanging for so many years, matagal. Baka mamatay na ako, hindi na nila ako maimbestiga,” he added.

In response, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin issued a statement saying, “If the former president desires to surrender himself to the jurisdiction of the ICC, the government will neither object to it nor move to block the fulfillment of his desire.” He further clarified that, should the ICC involve the International Police (Interpol), the government would be obliged to treat such a notice as a request to be honored.

“The domestic law enforcement agencies shall be bound to fully cooperate with Interpol pursuant to established protocols,” Bersamin explained.
Duterte also expressed his readiness to face any consequences, saying, “If I am found guilty, I will go to prison and rot there for all time.”
📷 Screengrab from House of Representatives of the Philippines FB