Malacañang rejects ICC jurisdiction, warns of risks

Malacañang reiterated Thursday that the Philippine government does not recognize the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC) over the country.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro stated this in response to inquiries about potential talks on the interim release of former President Rodrigo Duterte, emphasizing that cooperation would lead to further issues such as asset freezes and exposure of hidden assets.

On March 11, Philippine authorities assisted Interpol in serving an arrest warrant from the ICC against Duterte for crimes against humanity related to his drug war.

Duterte was arrested on March 11 upon arrival from Hong Kong and transported to the Hague Penitentiary Institution in Scheveningen Prison on March 13 (Philippine time), where he remains until trial.

The next hearing regarding the confirmation of charges is scheduled for September 25, 2025.