No order from Speaker to prioritize ICC probe resolution, says House leader

Speaker Martin Romualdez has not issued a marching order to prioritize the deliberations on House resolutions urging the Marcos administration to cooperate with the International Criminal Court (ICC) probe on drug war deaths during the stint of former President Rodrigo Duterte, a House leader said Friday.

House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City Representative Manuel Dalipe was referring to House Resolution 1477 filed by Manila Rep. Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. Manila and 1-Rider party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez.

The resolution stated that while the Philippine government already withdrew from being a party to the ICC in March 2019, the ICC and both the Supreme Court in the Philippines have maintained that the former has jurisdiction with respect to any alleged crimes against humanity perpetuated in the Philippines during the Duterte administration’s drug war. 

"As chair of the Committee on Rules, I know for a fact that there is no instruction from the Office of the Speaker that requires us to give special attention to the House resolution seeking our cooperation with the ICC. This will be treated like all other House resolutions,” Dalipe said.

He, however, clarified that the House will not turn a blind eye to any resolution filed.

“Even if former President Duterte is held in high esteem by the House leadership, it will not suppress any member of Congress advocating for ICC support in investigating his anti-drug campaign. We have to respect the autonomy of the legislative process and the necessity for adherence to established procedures," Dalipe pointed out.

Aside from House Resolution 1477, House Deputy Minority Leader France Castro of ACT Teachers party-list, House Assistant Minority Leader Arlene Brosas of Gabriela party-list, and Kabataan party-list Representative Raoul Manuel also filed House Resolution 1393 calling for the same cooperation with ICC probers.

Dalipe also said the democratic process allows for constructive debate to ensure that all perspectives are considered in the formulation of legislative decisions.

"The legislative process is a cornerstone of our democracy, and the House of Representatives remains committed to fulfilling its responsibilities with the utmost dedication to the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law," he added.

The House already held one committee hearing on Abante's resolution this week.—AOL, GMA Integrated News