Remulla: Duterte must stay in The Hague

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Thursday said former president Rodrigo Duterte should remain in custody at The Hague, warning that granting interim release would do more harm than good to the ongoing International Criminal Court (ICC) proceedings.

“We don’t think it is inappropriate for us to comment,” Remulla said when asked whether the Philippines could weigh in on the matter. “I think the case should be heard as soon as possible, and that there will be more harm than good if interim release is granted by the court.”

He emphasized the difficulty of securing Duterte’s appearance before the ICC and warned that regaining custody, should he be released, would not be easy.

“The court itself knows it took a lot to be able to bring him before The Hague,” Remulla said. “It’s better that he be present during the proceedings.”

Addressing concerns over Duterte’s health, Remulla said there is no need to move him elsewhere for treatment, asserting that the best medical care is already available in the Netherlands. “Moving him might even cause a few more adjustments that may not be good for him,” he added.

Remulla also responded to the defense team's argument that Duterte would not commit further crimes if granted temporary release. “It might be a subliminal thing that they used the words ‘will not continue to commit crimes.’ But let’s focus on the hearing of the cases, so that families of those who suffered during the drug war can find some form of closure,” he said.

As the ICC proceedings continue, Remulla urged all parties to allow the process to unfold with Duterte remaining in custody. “Let’s just wait for the case to be heard and stay put. That’s the best thing that can happen in this case,” he said.

Remulla confirmed that the ICC has requested assistance from the Department of Justice (DOJ), particularly through the Witness Protection Program. “We have given our support and cooperation, as this is a well-founded request to bring the witnesses safely to The Hague,” he said.

He clarified that the government’s support is limited to logistical needs for indigent witnesses. “They’re mostly indigent and have no means. That’s all we’re helping with,” he added.

Asked about the possibility of relocation if Duterte were to be granted interim release, Remulla noted that South America could be considered. “It’s possible. I know that when the ICC relocates people, it’s often to South America,” he said.