DOJ continues EJK probe separate from ICC case

The Department of Justice (DOJ) under Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla will continue its investigations into extrajudicial killings (EJKs) linked to the previous administration's drug war, irrespective of former president Rodrigo Duterte's ongoing trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Remulla stated that the DOJ's efforts to hold those responsible for EJKs accountable are "unrelenting" and proceed independently from the ICC proceedings.

He described the investigation process as slow-grinding police and law enforcement work that requires recreating incomplete records and piecing together past events.

These statements were made amidst heightened international scrutiny following Duterte's arrest and detention in The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity related to his anti-drug campaign.

Remulla highlighted the principle of double jeopardy, explaining that the government aims to avoid overlapping proceedings with the ICC case, as a person cannot be tried twice for the same act.

The Philippine government's commitment to its own investigations remains firm, ensuring due process and accountability within its own jurisdiction.