PNP Chief Appeals to DDS Supporters Amid Duterte ICC Trial
MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III has called on Diehard Duterte Supporters (DDS) to put aside their political differences and trust the International Criminal Court (ICC) to handle former President Rodrigo Duterte’s case fairly. He urged DDS to respect the process and avoid further divisions among Filipinos.
Gen. Torre’s appeal came after images and videos allegedly showing crimes during Duterte’s administration spread online recently. These materials were also used to criticize the current leadership under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
PNP Chief Highlights Truth and Unity
“They are running out of bullets and issues they want to throw against this government. That’s why they are digging now. But didn’t they realize how easy it is for us to check their claims. Their words against the record of the internet. Their narrative can easily be refuted,” Torre said during a Monday press briefing.
He added, “So that’s why I appeal to them, we are all Filipinos and we want to improve the country; so let’s unite and forget about our differences—all those cases, all those issues that they are harping about bring FPRRD (former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte) home. He’s already in The Hague.”
According to the PNP chief, the ICC judges will fairly evaluate the evidence presented by both the prosecution and defense. He also noted that the complainants are Filipinos, not foreigners, ensuring the case remains a national concern.
Latest Developments in Duterte’s ICC Case
Last month, Duterte formally requested an interim release from the ICC, hoping to relocate to an undisclosed country that reportedly offered to host him. However, ICC prosecutors opposed this appeal, urging Pre-Trial Chamber I to dismiss the request.
Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang argued that keeping Duterte in custody is necessary to guarantee his appearance at trial.
On March 11, the ICC issued an arrest warrant against Duterte for crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s controversial war on drugs. He currently remains in The Hague, Netherlands, and attended his pre-trial hearing via video call on March 14.
Reports indicate that the anti-drug campaign, known as Oplan Tokhang, resulted in at least 6,000 deaths. Meanwhile, human rights organizations estimate the toll to be as high as 20,000.
For more news and updates on Duterte ICC trial, visit Filipinokami.com.
