After surrendering former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court (ICC), the Philippine government will ensure that his rights will be protected, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said yesterday.

Citing Republic Act 9851, the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide and Other Crimes Against Humanity, Castro highlighted the law’s guarantee that individuals accused of grave crimes under international law will receive a fair trial and protection in line with both national and international standards.

Chapter I, Section II(f) of the measure stipulates that the State shall provide all rights necessary to ensure a fair and prompt trial for accused individuals, as well as protection for victims, witnesses, and their families.

Castro emphasized that the government will not abandon Duterte but will continue to assert his rights, regardless of the charges.

“Our government will not abandon him, especially when it comes to his rights,” she said, emphasizing that all Filipinos, including those in legal trouble abroad, can rely on government support.

In defending the actions taken during Duterte’s arrest, Castro clarified that the operation was a “surrender,” not an “extradition,” owing to the serious charges he faces.

She stressed that the process followed Republic Act 9851, asserting that it was conducted legally and in accordance with due process.

Castro also addressed concerns over the handling of the arrest, including claims of illegal detention and delays in Duterte’s transfer to Interpol. She explained that the government’s actions were within its legal prerogative and emphasized the necessity of complying with Interpol’s requests.

“It’s the prerogative of the government. We need to honor our commitment to Interpol, as non-cooperation could affect future cases involving Filipino fugitives abroad,” she said.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirmed that Duterte’s arrest was made in line with the country’s obligations to Interpol, to ensure continued cooperation with the international police organization in future cases.

On the possibility of rejoining the ICC, Castro said there have been no discussions within the administration.

“We will cross that bridge when we get there,” she said.

Despite the Philippines’ withdrawal from the ICC in 2019, President Marcos has maintained that the government did not assist the ICC in its investigation into Duterte’s controversial war on drugs.

He reiterated, however, that the country continues to honor requests from Interpol.

While the Philippines is no longer a member of the ICC, Castro emphasized that the government remains committed to fulfilling its obligations to Interpol, which was instrumental in facilitating Duterte’s arrest.