How did this happen? Wasn't there a recent survey showing low approval ratings for the Senate, but the current public attention seems to suggest otherwise. And despite the commotion in the Senate, it seems many still believe and trust Cayetano. He’s getting way more views than mainstream media outlets.
I definitely have no problems with Senator Bato dela Rosa and other politicians facing trial if there are legitimate cases against them. However, I want it to happen HERE in the Philippines. I do not believe that foreign entities should be the ones deciding or judging matters involving our own citizens and institutions.
Our justice system is not perfect, but it still functions. Despite its flaws, I would still prefer that the ICC or any other international or foreign-led body not intervene in our judicial process. Just as many Filipinos do not want countries like China or the United States interfering in our national affairs, I feel the same way about foreign involvement in our legal system.
For me, matters concerning Philippine justice should primarily be handled by Filipinos and within Philippine institutions. It may benefit us who support the current administration, but what will happen in the coming years? If Duterte eventually wins in 2028 and does the same thing to the people who were responsible for sending his father to The Hague, what would our sentiments be then? This is just my own opinion and I'm fine with people who will disagree
The warrant of arrest issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) is different from a warrant issued by Philippine courts because it originates from an international tribunal and not from the Philippine judicial system. Philippine warrants are issued in accordance with the Constitution and local criminal procedures, requiring a judge’s personal determination of probable cause.
In contrast, an ICC warrant relies on international jurisdiction under the Rome Statute and generally requires cooperation from member-states or domestic authorities for implementation. Questions arise when such enforcement appears not to have undergone proper coordination or recognition through Philippine courts, raising concerns on sovereignty, jurisdiction, and due process.
The issue therefore is not only about the authority of the ICC to issue a warrant, but also whether its implementation within Philippine territory fully complies with constitutional safeguards and domestic legal procedures.