Manila: The Philippines has not made any commitment to comply with a potential order from the International Criminal Court (ICC) to freeze the assets of detained former president Rodrigo R. Duterte, Malaca±ang stated on Tuesday. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that the ICC lacks jurisdiction over the Philippines, rendering any of its requests non-binding on the government.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro explained during a press briefing that the administration has not pledged to adhere to any order issued by the ICC, especially since the court currently holds no jurisdiction over the Philippines. Duterte is presently detained in The Hague, Netherlands, facing potential charges of crimes against humanity. These allegations are linked to his aggressive campaign against illegal drugs during his periods as Davao City mayor and president.

Although the Philippines exited the Rome Statute in 2019, the ICC asserts its jurisdiction over crimes purportedly committed while the country was a member of the tribunal. Castro further clarified that the government has not deliberated on rejoining the ICC or addressing the court's potential directives.

"As we speak, we have not yet discussed any plan of rejoining the ICC," Castro noted. She recounted a recent conversation with the President, revealing, "The last time I spoke to the President, I asked him about it and he just smiled and told me to say that there is no discussion about that yet."