DOJ chief: ICC-issued arrest warrant must go through PH

National

ANY warrant of arrest issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) must be processed through the Philippine legal system if enforced within the country.

This process must be followed even if the country is no longer a member of the ICC, Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla clarified.

Remulla issued the clarification amid scrutiny of the ICC's investigation into alleged extrajudicial killings linked to former President Rodrigo Duterte's anti-drug campaign.

"Kung gusto po nilang pumasok dito upang manghuli at magsagawa ng warrant na inisyu siguro ng ICC pagdating ng panahon, kailangan po itong dumaan sa ating court system. Ito po ay kinakailangan ng isang aksyon to enforce a warrant, a judgement," he said.

Remulla explained that the DOJ would not obstruct ICC investigations, including those involving remote interviews with witnesses.

However, he stressed that Interpol must consult with Philippine courts before taking any enforcement actions.

He added that the Supreme Court must decide if the ICC’s jurisdiction applies to cases involving events that occurred while the Philippines was still a member.

Remulla emphasized that while the DOJ would not interfere with international bodies' operations, these bodies must follow local judicial procedures.

Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, who is among those under ICC investigation, welcomed Remulla's clarification.

He called it "a very good development" and expressed satisfaction with the protection of the country's sovereignty and jurisdiction.

The ICC's investigation targets Duterte, dela Rosa, and retired police General Oscar Albayalde for alleged involvement in extrajudicial killings during Duterte's presidency.

Remulla’s comments reaffirm the DOJ’s commitment to upholding local jurisdiction over international legal matters.

Therefore, although the ICC and Interpol can investigate and gather evidence, including digitally, they must comply with Philippine legal procedures and secure court approval before enforcing any arrest warrants.(MyTVCebu)