MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has not changed his stance on the International Criminal Court (ICC), Malacañang said.
The President has repeatedly said that his government would not serve any arrest warrant from the ICC against former President Rodrigo Duterte for crimes against humanity.
According to Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil, the Chief Executive’s position on the ICC remains consistent, amid insinuations that he has changed his tune.
She clarified that the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) move of preparing a briefer on the legal options available to Marcos regarding any arrest warrants that may be issued by the said court is not a change in position.
“’The President’s stance on the ICC remains clear and consistent. However, it is the duty of the Department of Justice to explore all legal avenues and ensure that the President is fully informed of his options,” Garafil said.
She added: “This is standard procedure, not a change in position, ensuring that our administration remains prepared for any scenario.”
DOJ spokesman Mico Clavano earlier said the briefer on Chief Executive regarding the ICC is being done “with an awareness that policy frameworks may evolve.”
Clavano said the briefer will contain the implications should the country stay out of the ICC or if the government should return as well as the legal obligations that may arise./PN
