NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Remulla Opposed To ICC Investigation Inside Philippines
Photo credit: ICC
In a firm declaration, Department Of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jose Crispin “Boying” Remulla expressed his position regarding the International Criminal Court's (ICC) impending decision on whether to conduct an investigation into the country's drug war. Emphasizing the political nature of the process and the nation's withdrawal from the ICC, Secretary Remulla conveyed his concerns about foreign interference in the Philippine legal system.
Secretary Remulla highlighted that the Philippines had already followed the principles of the committee by appealing to the ICC not to interfere with its legal system. He stressed that the country is not a colony or territory of any other nation, reiterating his opposition to external intervention in the Republic of the Philippines' justice system.
"While we always act in good faith, good faith is not enough when the leanings of international politics, whether liberal or conservative, constantly change. We might have made mistakes, or perhaps not, but in my opinion, the ICC should function in countries without a justice system, countries in turmoil like Sudan today. The ICC is needed in such places where there is no prevailing rule of law," Secretary Remulla stated.
Secretary Remulla firmly asserted that the ICC was not welcome in the Philippines and underscored the country's self-sufficiency in its legal traditions, law enforcement agencies, prosecution mechanisms, and courts. He emphasized that these are pillars that outsiders should not interfere with or undermine.
With regards to potential warrants issued by the ICC, Secretary Remulla made it clear that the Philippines would not comply, firmly stating, "They can't do anything here. They have no authority over us. Are they going to enter our country? Do they want to turn us into a colony again? That's in the past. We have already been colonies of Spain, America, and Japan before. It's enough. We are a free country with our own legal system."
Secretary Remulla emphasized that if there is evidence pointing to individuals involved in crimes, it should be presented to the Philippine authorities, who will then take appropriate action against the perpetrators. He firmly reiterated the importance of respecting the country's sovereignty and urged the ICC not to attempt to interfere in Philippine affairs.
The Secretary’s remarks reflect the sentiments of many who believe that the ICC's involvement in the Philippines' drug war is unnecessary and that the country's justice system is fully capable of addressing any issues internally.
As the ICC's upper chamber prepares to make its decision on the investigation, Secretary Remulla's strong stance underscores the Philippine government's commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and maintaining control over its legal processes.
Secretary Remulla highlighted that the Philippines had already followed the principles of the committee by appealing to the ICC not to interfere with its legal system. He stressed that the country is not a colony or territory of any other nation, reiterating his opposition to external intervention in the Republic of the Philippines' justice system.
"While we always act in good faith, good faith is not enough when the leanings of international politics, whether liberal or conservative, constantly change. We might have made mistakes, or perhaps not, but in my opinion, the ICC should function in countries without a justice system, countries in turmoil like Sudan today. The ICC is needed in such places where there is no prevailing rule of law," Secretary Remulla stated.
Secretary Remulla firmly asserted that the ICC was not welcome in the Philippines and underscored the country's self-sufficiency in its legal traditions, law enforcement agencies, prosecution mechanisms, and courts. He emphasized that these are pillars that outsiders should not interfere with or undermine.
With regards to potential warrants issued by the ICC, Secretary Remulla made it clear that the Philippines would not comply, firmly stating, "They can't do anything here. They have no authority over us. Are they going to enter our country? Do they want to turn us into a colony again? That's in the past. We have already been colonies of Spain, America, and Japan before. It's enough. We are a free country with our own legal system."
Secretary Remulla emphasized that if there is evidence pointing to individuals involved in crimes, it should be presented to the Philippine authorities, who will then take appropriate action against the perpetrators. He firmly reiterated the importance of respecting the country's sovereignty and urged the ICC not to attempt to interfere in Philippine affairs.
The Secretary’s remarks reflect the sentiments of many who believe that the ICC's involvement in the Philippines' drug war is unnecessary and that the country's justice system is fully capable of addressing any issues internally.
As the ICC's upper chamber prepares to make its decision on the investigation, Secretary Remulla's strong stance underscores the Philippine government's commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and maintaining control over its legal processes.
Jul 18, 2023
