Philippines Faces ICC Challenge Over Duterte's Drug War

The Philippine government must cooperate if the International Criminal Court seeks custody of former President Rodrigo Duterte due to an investigation into alleged crimes against humanity during his drug crackdown. Duterte, who withdrew the Philippines from the ICC in 2019, gave mixed responses about cooperating with the investigation.

The Philippine government announced on Wednesday its law enforcement agencies are obliged to cooperate with the International Criminal Court (ICC) should the tribunal request custody of former President Rodrigo Duterte. This cooperation would be part of the court's investigation into the thousands of deaths reported during Duterte's drug crackdown.

The Hague-based ICC is probing widespread killings from Duterte's tenure as mayor of Davao and later as president, considering them potential crimes against humanity. Human rights groups estimate the death toll might exceed 20,000 during his presidency, a campaign that drew Western criticism and led to the ICC's involvement.

During a congressional inquiry, Duterte displayed defiance, yet offered mixed messages about submitting to the court's jurisdiction. He said he wasn't afraid of the ICC but hinted at hostility towards investigators who approach him. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin stated that while Duterte's voluntary submission to the ICC won't be blocked, international requests to apprehend him will be respected according to established protocols.

(With inputs from agencies.)