Malacañang allows AMLC to decide on freezing Duterte’s assets if ICC requests it

Malacañang stated on Tuesday that it will allow the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) to decide whether to freeze former President Rodrigo Duterte's assets if requested by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said that any ICC order related to asset freezing would be referred to the AMLC, emphasizing that justice must be served and the AMLC is unbiased in handling such requests for reparations or damages.

The ICC previously stated it could order the freezing of an accused's assets following a conviction, as these assets may be used for victim reparations.

Trillanes filed two plunder cases against Duterte and Senator Bong Go in July and August 2024 involving various government projects during Duterte's presidency.

Castro noted that there was already a pending plunder case against Duterte which may warrant the freezing of assets if proven, stressing that even without an ICC request, the AMLC should have looked into this matter.

The ongoing investigation focuses on alleged murder committed between November 1, 2011 and March 16, 2019, involving Duterte's role during his tenure as Davao City mayor and later as president.