Photo courtesy: Kahimyang Project
(Opinion)
By Teddy Brul
RECENTLY, three senators signed a resolution calling for the immediate release of former president Rodrigo Duterte from his detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.
While this may touch the feelings of some and cause political uproar, it has no legal force. The ICC is a court of law, not a political arena.
It has its own rules and procedures that cannot be arbitrarily changed or influenced by any country, not even our own Senate.
The complaints filed against Duterte relate to his war on drugs when the Philippines was still a member of the ICC.
Since the country was a member at the time, the ICC has jurisdiction over these cases.
The Philippines’ subsequent withdrawal will not erase potential liabilities under international law.
A Senate resolution is not law. It is merely a formal statement of the views or positions of some members of the Senate.
It cannot prevent or affect investigations or proceedings conducted by the ICC.
In this era of left-right opinions, it is important to recall what former ICC judge Judge Sang-Hyun Song said: “This is a system that expresses a strong stance against impunity and a warning to anyone who attempts to commit crimes covered by the Statute. We cannot accept the paradox that accountability under the law should be minimal when power is maximal.” Meaning: No one — no matter how high their position — should escape accountability when a violation of the law is committed.
Everyone is equal before the law. If our leaders truly value the “rule of law,” they should respect the process of justice — even if it is being carried out outside the country.
As an accused, former president Duterte has the right to defend himself.
But, like everyone else, he must go through due process.
Justice should not be selective in who is served. True justice is: impartial, not afraid of power, and not swayed by the noise of politics.
Former president Duterte is entitled to defense of himself as an accused person.
He must, however, follow proper procedure, just like everyone else. Who is served by justice should not be chosen. True justice is impartial, unafraid of authority, and untainted by political clamor.
Call to the People
In times of confusion and disinformation, it is important to be critical, not hasty.
Don’t just give in to emotions or popular opinion.
It is our duty as citizens to stand up for truth and accountability.
Think about the future, not just of one person — but of the entire nation. For Justice. For Truth. For the People.
Padayon! Filipinas
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