Manila: The arrest of former president Rodrigo R. Duterte was conducted in accordance with the law, Malaca±ang asserted, emphasizing the Philippine government’s obligation to honor its commitments to the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol).
According to Philippines News Agency, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro addressed the media, affirming that there was no wrongdoing in the Marcos administration’s decision to facilitate Duterte’s arrest. Duterte is facing charges of crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court (ICC). Castro clarified that the government’s actions were a legal step taken in cooperation with Interpol, and not a surrender of Philippine sovereignty.
Duterte’s daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, has accused President Marcos of committing an impeachable offense by allegedly allowing her father’s arrest and his subsequent transfer to the ICC detention facility in The Hague, Netherlands. She argued that this act violated the Constitution and undermined public trust by permitting foreign jurisdiction to interfere with Philippine sovereignty.
Castro dismissed Vice President Duterte’s claims as baseless, reiterating that the President would not compromise the nation’s rights. She emphasized that the opinions expressed by the Vice President lacked foundation.
Despite the controversy, Castro mentioned that government officials involved in Duterte’s arrest would submit counter-affidavits to the Office of the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman has requested responses from several officials, including Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla and other high-ranking law enforcement and government personnel, regarding the complaint about the legality of Duterte’s arrest.
Castro reiterated that the actions of these officials were lawful, and they would adhere to legal procedures in their responses. She emphasized the administration’s commitment to following the law and maintaining legal and valid procedures. Duterte’s charges of crimes against humanity are related to his contentious war on drugs.
