Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero said on Wednesday that the execution of the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrant against former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte demonstrates the Philippines’ commitment to upholding international agreements.
“The peaceful and orderly service of the Interpol warrant—carried out without incident—reflects our nation’s commitment to upholding international agreements, as well as the maturity, civility, calm, and professionalism of all those involved: our law enforcement authorities, former President Rodrigo R. Duterte, his lawyers, and his supporters,” Escudero said in a statement.
Escudero noted that the arrest “will undoubtedly elicit diverse reactions shaped by differing perspectives on the allegations against the former president, from the families of victims of extra-judicial killings to his loyal supporters.”
The Senate President urged the public to approach the recent incident with restraint and respect.
He also called on candidates running in the upcoming elections to “refrain from using this issue to fan the flames of partisanship in order to further their candidacies as this is a serious issue that involves lives and should not be trifled with for petty personal or political gain.”
“It is in our nation’s best interest to demonstrate strength not through division, but by our ability to rise above our differences and collectively, peacefully uphold justice and accountability,” Escudero said.
