Philippines Ready to Cooperate with Interpol Over ICC’s Duterte Probe

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The Philippine government has expressed its readiness 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. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, speaking to reporters in Pasay City, emphasized that despite the Philippines’ withdrawal from the ICC, the country would respond positively to any Interpol request concerning Duterte’s case. Bersamin highlighted the importance of honoring Interpol obligations, noting the mutual benefits the Philippines receives from the organization in other cases. This statement follows Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla’s comments on the Philippines’ willingness to engage in discussions with the ICC regarding cooperation on the investigation into Duterte’s drug war. Duterte himself has stated he would accept imprisonment if found guilty. The ICC is currently collecting evidence related to alleged crimes against humanity during Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, which resulted in over 6,200 deaths between June 2016 and November 2021.