President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s Cabinet has formally declined to participate in further Senate hearings on the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte. In a letter to the Senate, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin stated that the administration considers the matter already discussed.
The letter was made public by Senator Imee Marcos, the president’s sister, who has openly opposed her brother’s handling of Duterte’s case. She has aligned herself with the former president’s allies, criticizing what she perceives as the administration’s role in his legal troubles.
Cabinet Cites Legal Limitations in Senate Rejection
Bersamin explained that key government officials had already testified during the March 20 hearing. He asserted that all relevant matters not covered by executive privilege had been addressed.
The executive secretary also pointed out that four Supreme Court petitions are currently challenging Duterte’s arrest. He warned that further discussions could violate the sub judice rule, which restricts public commentary on ongoing legal cases.
“We must respectfully decline the invitation to attend the hearing. However, we remain available to provide any necessary clarifications through appropriate legal channels,” Bersamin wrote.
His response signals a firm stance from Malacañang against continued Senate scrutiny over the former president’s controversial turnover to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Imee Marcos Challenges Administration Over Duterte Arrest
The arrest of Duterte, who faces charges of crimes against humanity over his drug war, has divided the Marcos family. Imee Marcos, chair of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, initially launched an inquiry into the ICC’s involvement in Philippine affairs. However, her investigation quickly shifted toward questioning who in the Marcos administration may have played a role in Duterte’s legal troubles.
The senator alleged that there were irregularities in the process and claimed that Duterte’s rights had been violated. Her stance has put her at odds with her brother, leading her to publicly sever ties with his political slate.
The Palace responded to Imee’s actions, stating that if her values no longer aligned with the administration, then it was best for her to step away.
Duterte’s Drug War Legacy and ICC Case
Duterte’s drug war resulted in at least 6,000 confirmed deaths, though human rights organizations estimate the number to be as high as 30,000. Despite the staggering figures, only four convictions have been made in connection to the extrajudicial killings.
During the March 20 Senate hearing, Justice Secretary Boying Remulla acknowledged flaws in the justice system that failed to properly address the deaths linked to the campaign.
The Marcos administration’s refusal to participate in further hearings signals a possible attempt to distance itself from Duterte’s legal predicament. However, with mounting political tensions and the ICC case ongoing, the issue remains far from resolved.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.