CRITICS SLAM DUTERTE’S ICC CHALLENGE AS DESPERATE MOVE

Human rights lawyer Neri Colmenares criticized former president Rodrigo Duterte’s legal team for challenging the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed during his administration’s war on drugs.

Colmenares argued that the ICC retains jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was still a member of the Rome Statute, even after the country’s withdrawal.

He cited past cases, such as Burundi, where the ICC maintained jurisdiction despite a country’s exit from the treaty.

Colmenares condemned the defense team’s efforts to nullify procedural steps, calling it an attempt to delay justice and evade accountability.

He urged the public and international community to remain vigilant and support the fight for justice for the victims of Duterte’s drug war.

Source: PhilNews24 | May 4, 2025