Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra clarified that the International Criminal Court (ICC) is free to conduct investigations in the Philippines, but the Philippine government does not intend to cooperate or offer assistance at this time. During a joint hearing of the House committees on justice and human rights, Guevarra emphasized that while the government does not prohibit the ICC’s inquiry into the previous administration’s drug war, due to unresolved jurisdictional issues, no cooperation should be expected.

Guevarra stated, “We are not preventing the investigation from continuing, as that was the decision of the appeals chamber. You can proceed with your investigation in any manner you choose, talk to anyone, interview any witness; however, do not expect cooperation from the Philippine government.”

The House committees on justice and human rights previously approved draft resolutions urging the government to assist the ICC in its probe of the Duterte administration’s drug war. Efforts are underway among lower chamber lawmakers to create a concurrent resolution with the Senate. Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros, collaborating with the Senate, submitted a similar resolution. The committees accepted House Resolution 1477 introduced by Manila 6th District Representative Bienvenido Abante and 1-Rider Representative Ramon Rodrigo Gutierrez. These three resolutions will merge with two additional ones independently submitted by the Makabayan bloc and Albay 1st District Representative Edcel Lagman.

Photo: Screenshot from House of Representatives FB