Nations

Duterte to forgo mayoral seat?

- — With Janvic Mateo

Duterte, who is facing charges of crimes against humanity, is seeking interim release to an undisclosed country.

"Granting refuge to a figure accused of such grave crimes would not only undermine the integrity of the ICC (International Criminal Court) process, but would also send a dangerous message to other potential perpetrators of human rights abuses worldwide: that impunity is attainable," 1Sambayan said.

"Such a move would be a betrayal of the international commitment to justice and accountability, and would severely damage the reputation of the host country on the world stage. The international community must stand firm against this blatant attempt to subvert justice," the group added.

The coalition said Duterte's alleged crimes against humanity, stemming from his campaign against illegal drugs, are supported by documented evidence of systematic violence, extrajudicial killings and suppression of dissent.

These are not mere political accusations, they said, but part of a case that deserves full and unhindered prosecution.