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Duterte Slams ICC Subpoena, Questions Jurisdiction: 'I Don't Recognize That'
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Former President Rodrigo Duterte is once again in the spotlight as the International Criminal Court (ICC) intensifies its investigation into alleged extrajudicial killings during his administration. With Congress considering a subpoena to force Duterte to attend the next hearing, his response has been anything but subdued.

During an interview, when asked if he would attend the hearing or what advice he would give to the generals and chiefs of staff targeted by the ICC, Duterte was quick to express his disdain for the court. "P****** ICC na yan. I do not recognize that. Ano yang ICC na yan?" he questioned, clearly challenging the court's authority over the Philippines.

Duterte, a former prosecutor, emphasized the importance of jurisdiction in legal matters. "Are we or are we not? Yan ang tanong ko muna—jurisdiction. Abogado ako eh, jurisdiction. Fiscal ako whenever I face a case dito sa korte, everyday magtanong ako diyan, 'Do I have the power? May jurisdiction ba ako dito?' Wag kayong magdaldal ng 'let's go legal,'" he stated, underscoring his skepticism about the ICC's right to intervene.

He didn't hold back on his criticism of the ICC, either. "ICC oh, F*** you," Duterte exclaimed, pointing out what he sees as the court's selective justice. He cited numerous global massacres and injustices, particularly those perpetrated by Americans, asking, "Ano bang ginawa ninyong mga ICC kayo?"

Duterte also accused the ICC of targeting post-colonial nations while ignoring the actions of Western powers. "Karaming injustice, karaming violence, senseless, walang ka rason-rason dito nangyayari, especially perpetrated by the Americans, wala kayong ginawa," he continued. "Kayong mga Europeans, imbento niyo iyan eh. You go after yung mga post-colony. Yung colony ninyo tapos yung pumalit, medyo nagalit kayo kasi hindi na inyo. Yun ang hinahabol ninyo."
Aug 15, 2024
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