In light of speculations surrounding the potential issuance of an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court (ICC), former President Rodrigo Duterte declared that he is prepared to turn himself in and face any consequences, saying he has no other option but to accept it if this is his fate.
The arrest warrant in question pertains to "crimes against humanity" related to the drug war initiated during the previous administration's campaign against illegal drugs.
"Kung ganito na talaga ang swerte ko sa buhay, okay lang tatanggapin ko ‘yan. Wala tayong magawa. Hulihin tayo, ikulong tayo," Duterte said in his speech at a thanksgiving event for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Wan Chai, Hong Kong.
He then defended his actions, stating that if the accusations against him are valid, they were made in the interest of maintaining peace and security for the Filipino people.
In a statement, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Jay Ruiz confirmed that rumors about the issuance of an arrest warrant by the ICC have reached the Palace.
He emphasized that if the reports are legitimate, the government will be prepared to face the situation head-on.
However, Palace Press Officer and PCO Undersecretary Claire Castro clarified that there has been no confirmation from Malacañang regarding this matter.
Castro added that the government would be obliged to comply if Interpol requires the country’s cooperation in executing the arrest warrant.
If the ICC officially issues an arrest warrant, it will go through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) as the official entry point, in accordance with diplomatic protocols.
The ICC Office of the Prosecutor is expected to clarify the circulating reports regarding this issue.
During a House Quad-Committee hearing last October, the former president affirmed his willingness to face full legal responsibility for the drug war launched by his administration.
