Manila: The Department of Justice (DOJ) stated Thursday that the Philippine government’s cooperation with the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) for the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte is an act of the Philippines as a sovereign state and a recognition of international laws. The cooperation is in relation to charges of crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court (ICC).

According to Philippines News Agency, DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano emphasized that the Philippines is obligated to honor its commitments to Interpol, which served the ICC warrant of arrest. He explained that the move to cooperate with Interpol is an act of sovereignty, defined as the ultimate authority in decision-making and maintaining order.

Clavano noted that although the Philippines has no current contact with the ICC since it is no longer a member, it cooperated with Interpol once the ICC issued and endorsed a warrant of arrest for Duterte. He clarified that the Philippine government acted as a witness or attesting officer in the process, based on Article 59 of the Rome Statute, which requires a competent judicial authority to attest to the proper procedure of the arrest.

He further outlined the government’s duties, including ensuring the person arrested is correctly identified and that their rights are respected.

Meanwhile, Clavano assured that the DOJ’s independent investigation into extrajudicial killings (EJKs) during Duterte’s administration will continue despite the ICC’s actions. He affirmed the existence of a functioning justice system in the Philippines and the ongoing collection of evidence related to the drug war, with witnesses coming forward.

He reiterated that the investigation into alleged police abuses will persist, and those charged with crimes will receive due process. Clavano emphasized accountability for any law enforcement lapses found during the investigations.