President Bongbong Marcos’ recent statement regarding the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation into Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs raises questions about the Philippines’ commitment to international accountability. While Marcos asserts that the government will not cooperate with the ICC, his suggestion that investigators can visit as private citizens introduces an inconsistency.

Allowing ICC investigators to visit unofficially implies a level of tacit approval, creating ambiguity in the government’s stance. If Marcos truly opposed the ICC inquiry, a more consistent approach would involve clear directives to immigration authorities to prevent their entry. The mixed signals risk undermining the government’s credibility on the international stage, leaving room for speculation about its true intentions.

In the interest of transparency and coherence, it is crucial for the Philippine government, under President Marcos’ leadership, to provide a consistent and unequivocal response to the ICC investigation, ensuring that actions align with stated positions to maintain credibility and foster international cooperation.