By Rodolfo Dacleson II
(August 15, 2024) – An official of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Thursday said senators cannot protect former president Rodrigo Duterte and Sen. Bato Dela Rosa from the alleged impending arrest by the tribunal.
Atty. Kristina Conti, the ICC assistant to counsel, explained that the decision to enforce the arrest order depends on the authority since it came from an international court.
“Nagkaroon na ng ilang pagkakataon na Congress, lower house or upper house, has become a sort of a sacred place,” said Conti on One News’ Storycon. “I doubt that the Senate can continue to protect (Duterte and Dela Rosa).”
She furthered that the case would be ruled by the Supreme Court.
“This issue might reach the Supreme Court and it would be interesting how it will rule (on it),” added Conti. “Baka sabihin ng Supreme Court (sa ICC), ‘Yes, you can enforce the arrest warrant.’”
Duterte and Dela Rosa are being investigated by the ICC for alleged crimes against humanity during their deadly war on drugs, where 30,000 individuals were killed, according to human rights groups.
Dela Rosa served as Duterte’s first chief of the Philippine National Police.
Last Monday, Dela Rosa warned of a “looming constitutional crisis” due to the ICC’s investigation.
ALSO READ: Dela Rosa claims constitutional crisis looms due to ICC probe
The embattled senator also urged the Senate to pass a law prohibiting government agencies from cooperating with the ICC.
Conti, however, deemed it impossible, saying the matter is under the responsibility of the executive branch. She also described Dela Rosa’s proposition as “too selfish.”
“We should just respect how the ICC investigates the crime. Hindi pa naman siya paparusahan, wala pa namang guilty, iimbestigahan pa lang,” said Conti. “I would welcome more than anything for Senator Bato first to acknowledge that there were human rights violations, and second, to agree that there should be an investigation into the killings at least.”
She also stressed that Duterte’s age won’t exempt him from accountability.
Pres. Bongbong Marcos Jr. said he would not cooperate with the ICC. But his growing rift with the Dutertes could change his stance, according to political observers.
(PM)
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