The International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Office of the Prosecutor said Thursday that all its activities are financed through the court’s approved budget and are strictly managed with independent oversight.
The statement came after 18 individuals, presented as former Marines with their lawyer Levito Baligod, alleged that former Ako Bicol party-list Representative Zaldy Co and former senator Antonio Trillanes IV paid for hotel accommodations of ICC investigators, suggesting corruption in the probe.
The ICC explained that all prosecution and investigation costs, including missions, are covered by the court budget and managed independently in accordance with ICC financial rules and regulations.
The Office of the Prosecutor said it collects information relevant to investigations on its own, verifies witness statements, and evaluates the credibility and relevance of all sources while examining both incriminating and exonerating evidence.
It also noted that the disclosure of information in ongoing cases is strictly governed by the ICC legal framework and overseen by independent judges to maintain procedural integrity.
The ICC has been investigating the violent drug campaign under former President Rodrigo Duterte. A pre-trial hearing continues on charges of crimes against humanity, including extrajudicial killings during his tenure as mayor of Davao City and as president.
Baligod claimed that ICC investigators did not conduct a proper investigation in the Philippines and only interviewed witnesses linked to Trillanes, who has denied the allegations and said he will pursue legal action against Baligod and others spreading false claims.
The ICC added that it does not comment on operational matters related to ongoing investigations to protect the integrity of its work and ensure the safety of victims, witnesses, and staff. Information about sources, staff, and organizations involved in investigations remains confidential.