The Philippine government has expressed its willingness to work with the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) should the International Criminal Court (ICC) seek assistance in its investigation of former President Rodrigo Duterte, according to a statement from Malacañang on Friday. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, speaking to reporters in Pasay City, reiterated the country’s withdrawal from the ICC but emphasized the need to adhere to Interpol membership obligations. ‘We have withdrawn from the ICC, and that withdrawal is already in effect,’ Bersamin stated, clarifying that despite the withdrawal, the Philippines would respond positively to any Interpol request related to the ICC’s jurisdiction over Duterte. Bersamin highlighted the importance of respecting Interpol requests, noting the mutual benefits the Philippines receives from Interpol in other cases. This stance follows Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla’s comments on readiness to engage with the ICC regarding Duterte’s drug war, suggesting a dialogue soon. Duterte himself has expressed readiness to face imprisonment if found guilty. The ICC is currently investigating alleged crimes against humanity linked to Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, which resulted in over 6,200 deaths from June 2016 to November 2021.
Philippines Ready to Cooperate with Interpol on ICC’s Duterte Probe, Palace Says
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