‘Duterte trying to avoid ICC trial’

MANILA, Philippines — Some victims of the previous administration’s deadly campaign against illegal drugs believe that former president Rodrigo Duterte is simply trying to delay the proceedings to avoid facing trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC).

“What is clear is that they are lying through their teeth. They are not even united in their own narrative,” Llore Pasco, whose two sons were killed during the drug war, said in a statement released by the Rise Up for Life and for Rights.

Pasco was referring to the conflicting statements regarding the condition of the former president.

While his lawyer claims that Duterte is already suffering from mental decline, members of his family had repeatedly stated that he is in good condition.

For the Rise Up coalition, which represents families of some victims, the latest move to indefinitely adjourn the ICC proceedings is just part of the “antics” employed by the Duterte camp to delay the proceedings.

“They are exploiting all the legal remedies to prevent a trial: from questioning the ICC jurisdiction to requesting indefinite adjournment and interim release. All these legal challenges must not be allowed to hinder our fight for justice,” the group said.

“We call on the Filipino people and the international community to continue standing with us, the victims, as we face all the legal challenges hurled by the Dutertes,” it added.

Victims are urging the ICC pre-trial judges to immediately reschedule the postponed confirmation of charges hearing.

“We look to the ICC as the court of last resort. We have waited and suffered long enough. We cannot, and will not, give up now,” said Pasco.