JUSTICE (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has confirmed that former Philippine Charity and Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Royina Garma has agreed to serve as a witness for the prosecution against former president Rodrigo R. Duterte before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
This development marks a significant turning point in the ICC’s investigation into alleged crimes against humanity committed during Duterte’s term.
Remulla revealed that Garma, a former police colonel, flew to Malaysia as a tourist shortly after being deported from the United States, where her request for political asylum was denied.
Despite being subject to an immigration lookout bulletin order (ILBO), Garma was allowed to leave the country. Remulla explained that the DOJ facilitated her departure to ensure her safety and enable her to meet with ICC officials.
“Given that and the fact that she’s going to Malaysia to meet with the ICC, it gave us reason to say okay because if she’s going to be a witness to the ICC, we have said that our working relationship with the ICC involves witness protection,” Remulla stated.
He emphasized that meeting with ICC officials abroad was deemed the best way to protect Garma, citing potential threats to her life within the Philippines. This decision underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential risks associated with Garma’s testimony.
