Philippine Government Won’t Intervene in Duterte’s Defense Against ICC Charges
MANILA, March 15 (Bernama-PNA) – The Philippine government will not intervene as the camp of former president Rodrigo Duterte begins preparing for his defense against the charges of crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court (ICC), the Malacañang (Presidential Palace) said Saturday.
Preparation Time
The ICC set the confirmation of charges hearing on September 23 to allow Duterte and all involved parties to "adequately prepare" for the pre-trial, as well as to acknowledge his "right to be tried within a reasonable time." According to Palace Press Officer and Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro, this is the time when Duterte will really prepare his defense. "Maybe if he has witnesses, he can call them, make any statements or affidavits," she said.
Government Assistance
Castro reiterated that the Philippine government had given Duterte the necessary assistance, including medical services and "care package," from the time he was arrested at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City on Tuesday morning until he was sent to The Hague, Netherlands. However, the government would not shoulder the travel expenses of the witnesses of the Duterte camp.
Camp’s Capability
Castro pointed out that Duterte’s camp is capable of sending their own team to The Hague, since some of his allies, including former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque and Senator Robin Padilla, went there using their own money. "I think they can do that. They will be the ones to prepare for that. The government will not interfere in anything they do in their preparations for his defense," she said.
Government Monitoring
The government will continue monitoring the developments to keep the public updated, Castro added. "But of course, we will still monitor so that the people are still aware of what is happening in the hearing," she said. Castro also advised the public not to believe fake news peddlers who are spreading false information after Duterte’s arrest.
Background
Duterte is facing charges before the ICC for the crime against humanity of murder of 19 alleged drug offenders between 2011 and 2016 when he was still the mayor of Davao City. He is also a suspect in the murder of another 245 drug suspects when he was the president, starting in 2016 and until before the country withdrew from the ICC effective March 17, 2018.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Philippine government will not intervene in the preparation of former president Rodrigo Duterte’s defense against the ICC charges, and will instead allow his camp to take charge of their own preparations. The government will continue to monitor the developments to keep the public updated, and advises the public not to believe fake news peddlers spreading false information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the Philippine government provide financial assistance to Duterte’s camp for their travel expenses to The Hague?
A: No, the government will not shoulder the travel expenses of the witnesses of the Duterte camp.
Q: Will the Philippine government provide any other assistance to Duterte in his defense against the ICC charges?
A: The government will provide medical services and "care package" to Duterte, but will not interfere in his camp’s preparations for his defense.
Q: Will the government continue to monitor the developments in the case?
A: Yes, the government will continue to monitor the developments to keep the public updated.