The International Criminal Court (ICC) has declined to comment on the alleged arrest order against former President Rodrigo Duterte.
In a statement, the ICC neither confirmed nor denied issuing an arrest warrant against the former president.
The ICC Office of the Prosecutor emphasized that confidentiality is crucial for their ongoing investigation into Duterte’s alleged violations of his war-on-drugs policy during his administration, citing the need to protect victims and witnesses.
The government has previously stated that it is prepared for any eventuality regarding this issue.
Meanwhile, Assistant Counsel to the Complainants Atty. Kristina Conti said they cannot also confirm the report on the alleged issuance of warrant of arrest against Duterte.
According to Conti, those who may have knowledge of the arrest warrant include the Philippine government, Interpol, and the 125 other ICC member countries.
Conti added that their clients await an update from ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan, but have yet to receive confirmation.
Abner is an award-winning journalist. He received the prestigious 2015 Titus Brandsma Award for Community Communication in the Philippines and participated in the 2016 International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) of the United States of America, sponsored by the US Embassy in the Philippines. Founder of WATCH NORTH COTABATO, a media-citizens’ transparency group. He worked as a correspondent for the Philippine Daily Inquirer and CNN Philippines. His experience in broadcasting includes anchoring for Brigada News FM in Kidapawan and General Santos City and Brigada News TV. He anchors Tira Brigada via 105.1 Brigada News FM Manila, Mondays-Saturdays.