Philippines Refuses to Cooperate with ICC Probe into Duterte's Drug War

Philippines Refuses to Cooperate with ICC

Brogosil Philippines - The Philippine government under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has refused to cooperate with the International Criminal Court's (ICC) investigation into alleged human rights abuses during former President Rodrigo Duterte's anti-drug campaign. The ICC launched its probe in 2021, focusing on the thousands of deaths tied to Duterte's "war on drugs," which critics claim led to extrajudicial killings and a disregard for due process.

Although the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019, the Court argues it still has jurisdiction over incidents that occurred while the country was a member. Marcos’ administration insists that the national justice system can handle any investigations, rejecting what it sees as foreign interference. Human rights advocates argue that domestic efforts have been inadequate and continue to press for accountability through the ICC. The investigation remains contentious, with local and international stakeholders divided on the path to justice for alleged victims.