During a Senate hearing led by Senator Imee Marcos, Cabinet officials of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. vehemently denied any involvement in aiding the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla firmly stated, “We did not assist the ICC. We never had contact with them,” emphasizing the administration’s stance on maintaining sovereignty and distancing itself from the ICC’s investigation.
The Senate probe took a dramatic turn as Vice President Sara Duterte joined the proceedings via video call from The Hague, where she has been assisting her father with legal matters related to the ICC. She described her father’s arrest as “illegal” and expressed heartfelt gratitude to Senator Marcos for initiating the investigation. Her participation highlighted the issue’s emotional and political weight as she defended her father’s legacy and criticized the ICC’s actions.
The hearing underscored the government’s position on the ICC’s jurisdiction, with officials reiterating their commitment to upholding national sovereignty. The debate has sparked intense political and legal discussions in the Philippines, with questions about the ICC’s role and the implications for the country’s justice system. As the investigation unfolds, the issue remains a focal point of national attention, reflecting the complexities of international law and domestic politics.
