ILOILO – Allow due process to unfold, stressed Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. in reaction to the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte who faces a charge of crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court (ICC) based in The Hague, Netherlands.
“As a lawyer, I understand that there is a process currently underway. I would like for that to proceed,” he stressed.
Defensor refrained from commenting on Duterte supporters’ contention that bringing the former president to the ICC denies him a fair trial; they want him tried in the Philippines.
“It is their opinion, and they have the right to it. However, we believe in the fairness of the ICC and our courts,” Defensor said. “I respect their opinion but cannot comment further.”
The governor also said pressing issues in Iloilo should take precedence over the developments concerning Duterte. He highlighted ongoing efforts by the Iloilo provincial government, such as combating dengue, preparing for the possible effects of hazardous heat index, and addressing food security.
“That’s what we need to focus on right now here in Iloilo. We are addressing the threats to food security, the situation in the West Philippine Sea, and many other concerns,” said Defensor. “While former President Duterte’s arrest is part of international law, which is a component of our legal system, we need to focus on our work.”
Defensor also stressed the importance of keeping politics separate from government work, especially as local government units deal with numerous challenges affecting their constituents.
“I know it’s an important issue, but I prefer to focus on our work to ensure that politics does not interfere with the job of the government in taking care of the people,” he said.
Regarding the recent travel advisory issued by Australia for its residents in the Philippines, Defensor acknowledged that country’s right to issue such advisories but emphasized that the Philippines also has the right to restrict travel to countries deemed insecure.
“At present, I believe there is no reason to say that the Philippines is an unsafe tourist destination. I don’t think it’s a problem. Tourists can still come to Iloilo and other regions of the country,” Defensor remarked.
On the topic of rallies, the governor expressed his support for people’s right to protest but advised that it should be done peacefully and without disrupting the daily lives of others.
“I’ve joined rallies myself during my college years to raise issues like oil price hikes and inflation,” he shared. “But rallies should be peaceful and held in designated streets to avoid disturbing traffic or inconveniencing others. The exercise of our rights should not interfere with the rights of others to go about their day.”/PN
