HOUSE Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal Partylist Representative Leila de Lima has welcomed the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Pre-Trial Chamber’s rejection of Rodrigo Duterte’s request for interim release, stating that the decision indicates the strength of the evidence against the former president.
De Lima, a vocal critic of Duterte’s “War on Drugs,” released a statement emphasizing that the swift denial of the plea was not surprising, as it lacked support in both fact and the Rome Statute. She argued that the ICC’s reluctance to issue arrest warrants without substantial evidence suggests that the case against Duterte is strong enough to warrant his detention during trial.
De Lima also highlighted the ICC’s reputation for impartiality, stating that the court “will spare no sacred cows” and will only be guided by reason and justice.
Acknowledging Duterte’s continued influence in the Philippines, De Lima stressed the importance of protecting witnesses and encouraging other victims of the “War on Drugs” to come forward. She reiterated her commitment to fighting for justice and accountability for the thousands of Filipinos killed in the anti-drug campaign, including innocent children, stating, “Patuloy nating palakasin ang ating laban para mapanagot ang pasimuno at ang lahat ng kasabwat sa krimen laban sa sangkatauhan.”
