Vice President Sara Duterte Declines International Court, Vows to Respond to Accusations in Philippine Courts Only

MANILA: Vice President Sara Z. Duterte of the Philippines has firmly stated that she will respond to all accusations against her exclusively in Philippine courts, rejecting the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC). This declaration comes in the wake of allegations related to her tenure as the mayor of Davao City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Vice President Duterte was responding to claims made by former senator Antonio Trillanes IV, who alleged that evidence submitted to the ICC proves her involvement in extrajudicial killings (EJK) during her term as mayor. “Haharapin ko ang anumang akusasyon laban sa akin (I will face any accusation against me). But I will only face any charge against me before a Filipino judge — and only before a Filipino court,” Duterte asserted.

She recalled that throughout her service as vice mayor and mayor of Davao City, she was never associated with the so-called Davao Death Squad. However, since assuming the office of Vice President, Duterte noted that she has been implicated in cases of EJK.

Duterte emphasized her commitment to facing any charges within the Philippines, stating that participating in an international process would not only bring shame to the country but also undermine the dignity of Filipino judges, courts, and the entire justice system. She highlighted that allowing foreign entities to intervene in the nation’s affairs would be an affront to the legacy of national heroes who fought for the country’s freedom and sovereignty.

Vice President Duterte’s stance underscores a significant aspect of the ongoing discourse on international law and the sovereignty of national legal systems, particularly in the context of allegations of human rights violations.