Is ICC closing in on Duterte over drug war probe?

The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor has requested assistance from the Philippine government to facilitate interviews with five individuals, just before potentially issuing warrants of arrest. Justice Secretary Guevarra confirmed that the government may not cooperate, but the ICC can continue its investigation independently. These individuals, including Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, are considered secondary suspects in a case where President Duterte is the main suspect. Speculations arise about a political deal between Marcos Jr. and Vice-President Sara Duterte-Carpio to block the ICC case. Duterte-Carpio has voiced her opposition to ICC officials entering the country, emphasizing the competence of local courts.

The ICC started probing the drug war in 2018, prompting the Philippines to withdraw from the Rome Statute. Despite government objections, the ICC approved the probe’s resumption in 2023 due to a lack of progress in local investigations. The Marcos government continues to challenge this decision, causing uncertainty in the legal proceedings.