Metro Manila, Philippines – The International Criminal Court (ICC) Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) rejected the allegations of former marine officers and their lawyer of secret accommodation for the prosecutors investigating former President Rodrigo Duterte’s crimes against humanity case in the Philippines.
In a statement sent to NewsWatch Plus on Thursday, Feb. 26, the OTP stated its independence in investigating Duterte, who was charged for murder and attempted murder in relation to the war on drugs.
Lawyer Levi Baligod said a number of ex-marine officers have alleged that they delivered money to lawmakers and government officials, part of which was also used to pay the activities of ICC prosecutors in the country.
The former marine officers said they also served as chauffeur and security detail for them during their visits in 2023 to 2025.
“The Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) of the International Criminal Court independently collects information relevant to its investigations, identifies the individuals from whom it collects witness statements, and assesses the credibility, reliability, and relevance of all sources of information it requests and receives,” the OTP said.
“It examines incriminating and exonerating evidence equally,” it said. “The disclosure of information in the cases before the Court is strictly regulated by the ICC legal framework and under the control of independent ICC Judges.”
The OTP also said it does not comment on operational matters in ongoing investigations and prosecutions to protect their integrity, as well as ensure the safety and security of victims, witnesses, and other individuals they interacted with.
“The sources of evidence including names of staff and names of witnesses or institutions/organizations the Office interacts with during its investigations are subject to confidentiality,” it said.
The OTP said its activities are funded through the international tribunal’s budget, approved by the ICC Assembly of States Parties, and subject to established oversight mechanisms.
“The costs related to OTP prosecutions and investigative activities, including mission expenses, are fully covered by this budget, and managed strictly by the Office in an independent and transparent manner, and in accordance with ICC financial rules and regulations,” it said.
The ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I is holding a week-long confirmation of charges hearing on Duterte’s case.
A number of those named in the affidavit, which has been submitted to the Office of Ombudsman on Thursday, have denied involvement in the claims.
Malacañang said the claims were disclosed to discredit the credibility and integrity of the ICC, but said it was more concerned with the supposed lies against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Meanwhile, Duterte’s daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, said the information supported her earlier warnings of supposed ICC presence in the country — a matter which she said tackles sovereignty and not just political feud.
