Malacañang: Utang na loob cannot impede law enforcement

Malacañang asserted that personal debts of gratitude, or 'utang na loob,' should not impede the enforcement of laws and international obligations.

This statement comes after Davao City Mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte accused President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of ingratitude following the arrest of his father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro clarified that the Marcos family expressed gratitude in 2016 for the burial of the late president Ferdinand Marcos Sr. at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, a decision facilitated under the Duterte administration.

Castro recalled then-Senator Marcos's statement expressing sincere gratitude to President Duterte for his commitment to the burial issue, noting the family would be forever thankful.

Ultimately, Castro asserted that while gratitude is valued, it must not be allowed to obstruct the pursuit of justice and adherence to legal commitments.

Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero confirmed that Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa could seek refuge in the Senate if the ICC issues an arrest warrant, stating he would not permit a lawmaker to be arrested within the Senate grounds.