Former President Rodrigo Duterte publicly encouraged Wednesday members of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to come to the Philippines and launch an official investigation against him in connection with his ‘war on drugs’ policy and the extrajudicial killings that happened.
Duterte made the categorical statement during the interpellation of Gabriela party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas, who asked if he is willing to cooperate with the ICC investigation, at the House Quad Committee hearing.
“I am asking the ICC to hurry up. And, if possible, they can come here and start the investigation tomorrow. This issue has been left hanging for so many years. Matagal, ma’am, baka mamatay na ako hindi na nila ako maimbestiga (They are taking so long. I might die. They can’t investigate me anymore),” he told Brosas.
“So, I am asking the ICC through you na magpunta na sila rito bukas, umpisahan na nila ang (to come here tomorrow and start their) investigation. And if I am found guilty, I will go to prison and rot there for all time,” Duterte added.
The former president reiterated most of the statements he made at the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing two weeks ago, when he assumed full legal responsibility for the actions of law enforcers who executed his war on drugs policy.
He did not deny the orders he issued to policemen to “kill” suspected criminals resisting arrest. He also acknowledged his penchant for not observing political correctness, especially when it comes to dealing with criminals.
“Self-defense is when you defend yourself to avoid injury, serious, or you die. That is applicable also to a policeman who is performing his duty because the policeman has to confront [the criminal],” Duterte explained.
“My language is brutal and raw for criminals. Wala akong pasensya (I have no patience).”
Editor’s Note: This story will be updated.
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