Malacañang announced that it has no plans to prevent former Senator Gringo Honasan from filing a petition with the International Criminal Court (ICC) to facilitate the return of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the Philippines.
Speaking at a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the administration respects Honasan’s right to take any legal action in defense of the former president. However, she advised Honasan to consult Duterte’s legal team first, as the ICC might not recognize his initiative.
“The government will not take any action or respond to the former senator’s plan because it no longer has any obligation to comply with or cooperate with the ICC’s legal system and processes,” Castro stated.
On Monday, Honasan revealed his plan, alongside Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, to file a petition with the ICC through a “people’s initiative.” This effort involves gathering signatures from Duterte’s supporters to bolster their case. The move comes amid ongoing debates about the ICC’s jurisdiction over the Philippines, especially concerning the former president’s controversial policies and legal challenges.
