Duterte Open to ICC Probe on Drug War as Philippine Government Signals Cooperation
Former President Rodrigo Duterte expresses willingness to face the International Criminal Court, with the current administration stating it will not obstruct the process.
- Rodrigo Duterte, the former president of the Philippines, has declared his readiness to appear before the International Criminal Court (ICC) regarding his controversial anti-drug campaign.
- During a congressional inquiry, Duterte urged the ICC to expedite its investigation, expressing impatience due to his advancing age.
- The Philippine government, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., announced it would not block Duterte's potential surrender to the ICC and would comply if Interpol issues a request.
- Duterte's administration is accused of crimes against humanity for the deaths of thousands during the drug crackdown, with estimates of fatalities exceeding 20,000.
- Despite withdrawing the Philippines from the ICC in 2019, the court maintains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was still a member.