As protests erupted in Manila, Filipinos took to the streets, urging the Marcos administration to reconsider the country’s membership in the International Criminal Court (ICC). The move comes after the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019 under the leadership of former President Rodrigo Duterte. The recent demonstrations were sparked by Duterte’s arrest and indictment for crimes against humanity related to his war on drugs, with the former president currently detained in a prison in the Netherlands.
On March 17, 2024, a group of protesters gathered in the Philippine capital, calling on the government to rejoin the ICC to ensure a fair and impartial investigation into the allegations against Duterte. The protesters argue that rejoining the ICC would not only guarantee a just trial for the former president but also provide a platform for addressing the human rights abuses that occurred during his tenure, particularly during the implementation of his anti-drug policies. Furthermore, they believe that ICC membership would demonstrate the Philippines’ commitment to upholding international law and protecting the rights of its citizens, thereby boosting the country’s credibility within the global community.
The protesters’ demands are rooted in the desire for accountability and transparency in the face of allegations of widespread human rights violations during Duterte’s presidency. By rejoining the ICC, the Philippines would be taking a crucial step towards ensuring that those responsible for such abuses are held accountable, regardless of their position or influence. As the country navigates this critical juncture, the international community will be watching closely to see how the Marcos administration responds to the protesters’ demands and whether it will take concrete steps towards promoting justice, accountability, and human rights.
Key Demands of the Protesters
- Reconsideration of the Philippines’ membership in the International Criminal Court (ICC)
- Guarantee of a fair and impartial investigation into the allegations against former President Rodrigo Duterte
- Addressing human rights abuses that occurred during Duterte’s tenure, particularly during the implementation of his anti-drug policies
- Demonstrating the Philippines’ commitment to upholding international law and protecting the rights of its citizens
The situation remains fluid, with the Philippine government facing mounting pressure to respond to the protesters’ demands. As the country grapples with its complex past and uncertain future, one thing is clear: the pursuit of justice, accountability, and human rights will continue to be a defining feature of the national conversation.