Philippines Zeroes Out ICC Probe: Duterte‑Style “No Entry” Policy
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has opened a formal inquiry into President Rodrigo Duterte’s infamous “war on drugs.” The move, backed by rights advocates, has the defendants—Philippines officials—stepping away like it’s a day off from a crowded campus. According to a presidential spokesperson, the country will not cooperate with the investigation.
ICC’s Verdict
The judges concluded that Duterte’s campaign “cannot be seen as a legitimate law‑enforcement operation” but rather a “systematic attack on civilians.” Thousands of lives were reportedly lost, and the decision has sparked widespread relief among human‑rights groups.
Duterte’s Counter‑Attack
President Duterte, already 76, has snubbed the probe. His chief legal advisor, Salvador Panelo, declared that the ICC “has no jurisdiction.” Panelo even accused the ICC of “violation of our Constitution” and pointed out that it “defied even its own Rome Statute.”
- Panelo’s key point: ICC investigators are forbidden from entering the Philippines.
- The president remains unapologetic, continuing to claim his anti‑drug drive has “cut crime” and “improved peace and order.”
Historical Context
In March 2018, Duterte actually pulled the Philippines out of the ICC’s founding treaty. But the courtroom’s statutes still grant jurisdiction for offenses committed from 2016 to 2019. That’s when the massive police sting operations took off.
He Who Was Was
During the campaign, over 6,100 suspected drug dealers were killed in targeted operations, according to Duterte. Critics say police carried out on‑the‑spot murders, staged crime scenes, and even murdered unarmed suspects. The president, however, maintains that the police were only “maximizing efficiency” and followed strict protocols for self‑defence.
Human‑Rights Outcry
Karapatan, a local rights group, saw the ICC’s statements as a “reaffirmation of victims’ voices.” They called on Duterte and his allies to be held accountable. Their message: “justice isn’t a suggestion—it’s a demand.”
What’s Next?
While Duterte’s term ends in June 2022, he’s eyeing a vice‑presidential run. The nation remains split—some see him as a hero who bared the criminal underbelly, while others view him as a villain summoning mass killings. And the ICC? It remains post‑pone‑on‑pause. The picture is clear: the Philippines has taken a firm “no‑entry” stance.
