The Philippine government is not ruling out collaboration with the International Criminal Court (ICC) in investigating drug war-related deaths from the Duterte administration, despite the country’s withdrawal from the ICC in 2019.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla revealed that discussions remain ongoing, with the administration carefully weighing options to ensure justice for the victims of the controversial anti-drug campaign.
“We are exploring all possibilities to provide justice for the victims,” Remulla said, adding that the decision is being deferred to ensure a fair outcome.
However, Remulla reiterated that any investigation would be better conducted within Philippine jurisdiction. “The ICC appears to be moving ahead with its probe, but we believe justice is best served here,” he emphasized.
The ICC has pressed ahead with its inquiry into alleged extrajudicial killings under the drug war, a move the government initially opposed. The shift in tone has sparked speculation over whether the administration is softening its stance on international scrutiny.
The prospect of ICC involvement has drawn mixed reactions from human rights groups and political observers, with some praising the openness while others remain skeptical about its sincerity.
