Photo credit: PCO

In a press briefing on Wednesday, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) affirmed its commitment to follow President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s stance on the International Criminal Court (ICC), asserting that the ICC lacks jurisdiction over the Philippines. President Marcos reiterated on Tuesday that he considers the ICC's investigation into the country's war on drugs during the previous administration as a threat to sovereignty.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. stated during the Palace press briefing, "We will follow the lead of the President," when asked about the ICC probe. Abalos added that if contacted by ICC representatives, the government agencies, including police personnel and local governments, have been directed not to cooperate.

In the event of a meeting with an ICC representative, Secretary Abalos emphasized that he would convey to the international body that the Philippines has consistently upheld transparency and, as a democratic nation, adheres to all laws. President Marcos had previously expressed concerns about ICC jurisdiction and directed non-cooperation with the international body.

The ICC authorized the reopening of the inquiry in January 2023 after its suspension in November 2021. In July 2023, the ICC Appeals Chamber rejected the government's appeal against the resumption of the probe. President Marcos, in November of the previous year, mentioned that the possibility of returning to the international tribunal was "under study," acknowledging challenges related to jurisdiction.

The Philippines withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2019 under the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte, following the initiation of an ICC investigation into his government's drug war. The current administration continues to assert its position against the ICC's jurisdiction, citing concerns over national sovereignty.