Manila, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) has responded to the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) calls to testify in the ongoing proceedings against former President Rodrigo Duterte.
In addition to the PNP, the ICC is also urging the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the National Investigation Bureau (NBI) to cooperate with their investigation into alleged crimes against humanity during the former president’s “war on drugs.”
In a statement, the PNP clarified that they will not prevent any of their members from cooperating with the ICC, noting that the call is not a direct order from the court.
PNP Spokesperson BGen. Randulf Tuano, said on Monday that the ICC’s call is not a mandate but rather a voluntary opportunity for members who wish to testify.
He added that any decision to testify would be a “personal legal decision,” and the organization respects due process and legal rights.
Duterte has repeatedly denied ordering unlawful killings and has said the anti-drug campaign was a legitimate law enforcement effort aimed at dismantling criminal networks and reducing crime.
Meanwhile, ICC Assistant to Counsel Atty. Kristina Conti emphasized that the call for additional witnesses does not indicate that the evidence against the former president is weak.
Instead, she explained that it demonstrates the thoroughness of the investigation and a continuous search for the truth.