House bloc assails Marcos for resisting return to ICC

THE Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives on Tuesday criticized President Marcos for resisting a potential return of the Philippines to the International Criminal Court (ICC).

- BY JOVEE MARIE N. DELA CRUZ X@joveemarie

The bloc, composed of Party-list Reps. Antonio Tinio of ACT Teachers, Sarah Jane Elago of Gabriela, and Renee Louise Co of Kabataan in a statement said reengagement with the ICC would not only reinforce the Philippines' reputation as a rights-respecting democracy but also restore international confidence in the country’s legal system.

It would, they added, strengthen partnerships rooted in justice, good governance, and the rule of law.

Parey-list Rep. Leila de Lima of Mamayang Liberal on Tuesday called on Marcos to reconsider his stance and rejoin the ICC, warning that the country's continued absence from the tribunal sends the wrong signal both domestically and internationally.

In a statement, de Lima asked: "Ano pa nga bang hinihintay ni Pan-gulong Marcos? Anong pumipigil sa kanya na bumalik ang Pilipinas bi-lang miyembro ng ICC?"