DOJ to Assist ICC Witnesses in Duterte Drug War Case

JUNE 26,2025

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) will provide financial and protective support to witnesses testifying in the International Criminal Court (ICC) case against former President Rodrigo Duterte, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed on Wednesday.

The ICC, currently trying Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity tied to his controversial war on drugs, formally requested the Philippine government’s help through the Witness Protection Program. Remulla disclosed that the DOJ has agreed to the request, ensuring that witnesses—many of whom are underprivileged—receive the aid necessary to safely testify in The Hague.

“We have given our support and cooperation because this is a well-founded request. These are people who don’t have much in life, and they deserve protection to speak the truth,” said Remulla in an interview with ANC.

The ICC launched a witness appeal microsite in late 2024 to encourage credible testimony and strengthen the ongoing investigation into the drug war killings, which left thousands of Filipinos dead between 2011 and 2019, including during Duterte’s time as Davao City mayor and Philippine president.

DOJ Philippines Complies with ICC Arrest Warrant

After months of back-and-forth over international cooperation, the Philippine government handed over Duterte to the ICC on March 11, 2025, complying with its obligations as a member of the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol). President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the handover allows Duterte to face the charges and give his side in court.

Following his arrest and transfer to the Netherlands, Duterte filed for interim release on June 12, citing age and deteriorating health. Now 80 years old, he has reportedly been struggling to eat and is under medical care.

However, the ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) strongly opposed his petition. In a June 23 filing, Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang urged the court to deny the release, pointing to Duterte’s past statements that undermine the legitimacy of the ICC itself.

DOJ Remulla: Duterte Must Stay in Custody

Remulla expressed concern that granting interim release would pose risks and undermine justice.

“Letting him out now could do more harm than good. It took a lot to bring him to trial—losing custody would jeopardize the entire case,” he warned.

He added that the Netherlands offers excellent medical facilities, and that moving Duterte to another country might trigger unnecessary complications.

“Let the trial proceed where he is. That’s the most practical and just decision at this point.”

Sara Duterte: Why Have an Interim Release Clause If It’s Never Granted?

Vice President Sara Duterte, speaking in Pampanga, questioned the rejection of her father’s plea.

“I don’t understand the reasoning. Why include interim release in the ICC rules if it’s not even granted to someone who is 80, frail, and needs care from loved ones?” she asked.

While admitting she had not read the full 15-page OTP opposition, she defended her father, emphasizing his health and their family’s desire to care for him personally.

“My position doesn’t influence other countries, especially if he’s released there. But denying him release just because of who I am makes no legal sense,” she added. NOWTREND

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