Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Partylist Representative Leila de Lima said the International Criminal Court (ICC) Appeals Chamber’s denial of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s request for interim release was expected, noting that public remarks from his children and supporters contributed to the outcome.
“Duterte’s interim release was undeniably flying on a wing and a prayer from the very start,” she said, adding, “Wala namang ibang may kasalanan dito kung hindi si Duterte at kanyang mga pamilya at supporters sa kanilang mga statements sa media na ginamit ng ICC Pre-Trial Chamber (PTC) sa pag-deny sa interim release, na sinang-ayunan naman ng Appeals Chamber.”
De Lima urged Duterte’s allies to avoid provocative rhetoric, citing Davao City Mayor Baste Duterte’s recent comments on reviving drug user lists.
“Siguro maghinay-hinay muna ang mga anak at supporters ni Duterte lalo na si Baste… Mga ganitong deklarasyon ang hindi nakakatulong sa kanyang ama,” she said, noting persistent “impunity.”
Akbayan Partylist Rep. Perci Cendaña welcomed the ICC ruling, saying it offers long-overdue justice for the children killed in the drug war.
“On no less than Children’s Month, the forces of justice in the universe decided to dismiss Duterte’s appeal for interim release… Hustisya ito para kina Myca, 3 years old; Danica Mae, 5 years old; Skyler, 4 years old; at sa libo-libo pang biktima ng war on drugs,” he said.