DOJ takes over Duterte habeas corpus petitions

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has taken over representation in three habeas corpus petitions filed by relatives and associates of former President Rodrigo Duterte at the Supreme Court, after the Office of Solicitor General declined to participate.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed that the DOJ submitted its comments on Monday, March 17, arguing that the petitions are 'moot' since the government no longer has physical custody of Duterte.

On Wednesday, March 19, Remulla stated during a forum that the DOJ is competent and prepared to represent the government before the Supreme Court in relation to Duterte's arrest by the International Criminal Court.

Former President Duterte was arrested last Tuesday after Interpol served an arrest warrant issued by the ICC and transferred him to The Hague, Netherlands on the same day.

Legal experts maintain that the SC has no jurisdiction over the ICC case, suggesting that Duterte's return is unlikely.