Philippine News Agency
Remulla: ICC has no jurisdiction over PH, only individuals
Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla asserted that individuals charged by the International Criminal Court (ICC) remain under its jurisdiction, even if the Philippines is no longer a member state.
Remulla clarified that the ICC's jurisdiction applies to individuals who have committed crimes violating International Humanitarian Law (IHL), not to the Philippines as a country.
He explained that while the Philippines, as a non-member state, is not under the ICC's jurisdiction, the international body can still pursue individuals for acts that transgress universal IHL values.
Remulla referenced Republic Act No. 9851, the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity, enacted in 2009, which aligns the country with international legal standards.
The DOJ chief emphasized the distinction between the state's non-membership and the personal accountability of individuals for alleged heinous crimes.
Remulla said the ICC only prosecutes individuals, not states, meaning the Philippines cannot be compelled to cooperate with the court.
However, he clarified that Filipino citizens accused of crimes under ICC jurisdiction must face proceedings independently.
The discussion gained renewed attention after Senator Imee Marcos questioned the ICC's authority regarding the March 11, 2025 arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte.
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