Former Far Eastern University Institute of Law (FEU-IL) Dean Atty. Melencio ‘Mel’ Sta. Maria stated that there are “practical reasons” in letting the International Criminal Court (ICC) handle former President Rodrigo Duterte’s crimes against humanity case after being arrested today, March 11. 

“In the first place, our own law allows it. Also, contextually and taking the situation as a whole, there are practical reasons to allow ICC to handle any crime against humanity,” the post read. 

Sta. Maria noted that a multinational investigation fosters greater confidence and is more resistant to violence, threats, instability, and undue influence from involved parties.

The former dean also added that the country could benefit from the expertise of prosecutors from the ICC. Additionally, due to the Philippines' slow justice system, an organization like the ICC could give more significant attention to a crime this extensive. 

Despite Duterte saying that the country is no longer part of the ICC, the 2021 Pangilinan et al. v. Cayetano et al. landmark case concerning the country’s withdrawal from the organization, ruled that the ICC “retains jurisdiction over any and all acts committed by government actors until March 17, 2019.”

Atty. Mel Sta. Maria served as the Dean of FEU-IL for nine years, from 2013 until his resignation last December 31, 2022.

(Photo by Mark Christian Cascayan/FEU Advocate)