Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla
MindanaoToday.com | Remulla Insists ICC Has No Jurisdiction Over PH, Dismisses Cooperation
MANILA, Philippines – Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Thursday maintained that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has no authority over the Philippines as a state, emphasizing that only individuals accused of crimes under international humanitarian law fall under its jurisdiction.
Speaking at a Senate Committee on Foreign Relations inquiry, Remulla stated, “The ICC’s jurisdiction applies worldwide. As part of the international community, we are governed by International Humanitarian Law.”
He cited Republic Act No. 9851, or the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity, which was enacted in 2009 to define and penalize serious international offenses.
Despite the law’s commitment to prosecuting grave crimes, Remulla reiterated that the ICC cannot compel the Philippines to cooperate. His firm stance on the matter comes amid growing discussions on international accountability, raising questions about the country’s position in upholding justice on a global scale.
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