Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. indicated on Friday that the government is considering a return to the International Criminal Court (ICC), nearly five years after the country’s withdrawal over objections to the ICC’s investigation into the Duterte administration’s war on illegal drugs.
“In terms of jurisdiction, especially since we have withdrawn from the Rome Statute a few years back, that brings into question whether or not this is actually possible,” Marcos stated during a media interview in Taguig City.
The withdrawal from the ICC occurred in 2019, a year after the tribunal initiated a preliminary probe into the anti-drug crackdown, during which thousands of people were reportedly killed. ICC prosecutors estimate the death toll to be between 12,000 and 30,000.
In July, the ICC decided to resume its inquiry, citing the Philippine government’s alleged lack of genuine effort in conducting its investigation. The Marcos administration rejected this move, emphasizing its objection to the presence of ICC prosecutors in the country.
Despite the government’s stance, there is a growing sentiment in the House of Representatives to allow the ICC to resume its probe.
President Marcos acknowledged the House resolutions, describing them as expressions of the sentiment within the legislative body. However, he reiterated the challenges related to jurisdiction and sovereignty.
Justice Secretary Remulla announced his intention to seek clarification from Malacañang on the country’s potential rejoining of the ICC.
As the Philippines navigates the complexities of potential ICC reengagement, the issue continues to spark discussions on jurisdiction, sovereignty, and the balance between domestic and international scrutiny.