DOJ, PNP deny knowledge of Oct 2024 ICC visit

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla and Philippine National Police Chief General Rommel Marbil told senators Thursday they had no knowledge of International Criminal Court (ICC) staff entering the country in October 2024 to gather information on killings during former President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs.

During a Senate Committee on Foreign Relations hearing, Senator Imee Marcos mentioned specific ICC staff members including Maya Destura Brackeen, William Rosato, Amir John Kassam, and Glenn Roderick Thomas Kala who reportedly collected data in the Philippines.

Remulla stated he was not informed about these individuals and denied any cooperation from the Department of Justice (DOJ), emphasizing that there were no instructions or advice regarding their activities.

Marbil also said under his leadership as PNP chief, there were no requests for information related to this matter from the ICC, and suggested civil society organizations could have facilitated the process instead.

Senator Marcos questioned the timing and evidence collection methods used by the ICC, expressing doubts about a coordinated effort between government entities and the court.