Rep Co, Tinio file HR opposing Duterte's interim ICC release

Representatives Renee Co and Antonio Tinio filed House Resolution 9 at the House of Representatives opposing former President Rodrigo Duterte's bid for interim release or repatriation from his detention in The Hague.

The resolution aims to support Duterte's continued detention by the International Criminal Court (ICC) under Republic Act 9851, which allows surrendering suspected individuals to international courts.

Co and Tinio cited Article 127 of the Rome Statute and a Supreme Court decision stating that the ICC retains jurisdiction over acts committed until March 17, 2019, despite the Philippines' withdrawal from the Rome Statute in 2018.

The lawmakers emphasized Duterte's refusal to accept the legitimacy of the ICC proceedings, considering himself a victim of kidnapping and thus posing a flight risk.

House Resolution 9 underscores the need for solidarity with human rights victims and accountability in a democratic society, aiming to ensure justice for those affected by his war on drugs.