Senator Christopher "Bong" Go recently stressed that the assessment of the impact of former President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs on Filipino lives should be made by Filipinos themselves, highlighting the enhanced public safety achieved during Duterte's administration.

The lawmaker's comments stem from the context of ongoing discussions about proposals of the Philippines rejoining the International Criminal Court, as he stressed that Filipinos know the real situation on the ground instead of what is perceived by the international community.

Go also emphasized the Filipino people's role in evaluating the effectiveness of Duterte's campaign against illegal drugs.

"Filipinos should be the judge, Filipinos should be judged only by fellow Filipinos before Philippine courts operating under Philippine laws," he said.

Reflecting on the past, Go highlighted a significant reduction in crime and fear, particularly concerning drug-related offenses, under Duterte's leadership.

The senator consistently stressed that he considers the proposal of rejoining ICC as an affront to a working Philippine justice system that is functioning independently to uphold justice and maintain the rule of law. This clearly shows that there is no need for external intervention.

"ICC has no right and business to meddle in our internal affairs where our courts remain fully operational," Go said.

He also cited the significance of international respect for Philippine jurisdiction in local judicial matters, echoing the sentiments earlier expressed by former President Duterte and even President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.