The Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed that the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte by the International Criminal Court (ICC) was carried out legally and in accordance with due process, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) chief Police Major General Nicolas Torre said on Friday.

“If you want to question that, then question it to the proper judicial authority. I am just quoting the DOJ. The DOJ provided the certification to the ICC, confirming that the arrest was legal,” Torre said in a radio interview, speaking in Filipino.

Torre highlighted the DOJ’s essential role in ensuring the operation met legal standards. He explained that determining the legality of an arrest is a routine function of the DOJ.

“That’s why we brought the DOJ in — because it is the competent judicial authority in this matter. The Prosecutor General was present to oversee the arrest’s legality,” he added.

Torre defends Interpol cooperation

Torre also responded to allegations that Duterte’s arrest was influenced by foreign intervention through the ICC.

He clarified that the operation was based on an Interpol request, emphasizing that the Philippines remains a member of Interpol.

“People need to understand that Interpol is not some foreign force operating in the country. It is a cooperation mechanism among nations, designed to transcend international boundaries in enforcing the law,” Torre explained.

He pointed out that the Philippines’ National Central Bureau, which handles Interpol matters, operates under the Philippine Center for Transnational Crime and is based in Camp Crame under the Office of the President.

Digong not mistreated

Torre dismissed claims that Duterte was mistreated or denied proper medical care during the process, revealing that the former chief executive had access to a full medical team throughout the operation.

“There were doctors from the PNP, AFP, and his own personal doctors, all of whom certified that he was fit to travel,” Torre stated.

Additionally, Torre refuted allegations that Duterte’s basic needs were neglected.

“Before Duterte even disembarked from the plane, he himself confirmed that he was fine. Even the doctors in The Hague later verified that he was in good health,” Torre added.

To highlight the special treatment Duterte received, Torre disclosed that he was provided accommodations not typically offered to most arrested individuals.

“We even placed him in the presidential lounge at the airport, something regular detainees never experience. His security team, legal counsel, and close family members were all present,” he said.

Torre also addressed Duterte’s complaint about his sleeping arrangements, noting that he was provided the same couch he used during his presidency.

Despite backlash from Duterte’s allies, Torre maintained that the CIDG was simply carrying out its mandate.

“Our job is to implement the warrant and bring him to the court that issued it. We are not judges — we follow the law and let the judicial system decide.”