ICC denies Rodrigo Duterte's request to drop rape probe
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has denied Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's request to drop a probe into the alleged rape and murder of a teenager by soldiers in 2009.
The ICC said in a statement that it had "carefully considered" Duterte's request but had decided to "maintain the integrity of the proceedings" and continue with the investigation.
Duterte had asked the ICC to drop the probe, citing a lack of jurisdiction and the refusal of the Philippine government to cooperate with the investigation.
The ICC's decision was welcomed by human rights groups, who had been critical of Duterte's efforts to evade accountability for the alleged crimes.
"This decision is a major victory for justice and accountability in the Philippines," said Chito Gascon, chairman of the Philippine Commission on Human Rights.
"The ICC has shown that it is committed to upholding its mandate and protecting the rights of victims, even in the face of opposition from powerful governments like the Philippines."
"The Philippines has a proud tradition of respecting human rights and upholding the rule of law. We will not let anyone undermine this tradition."
— Rodrigo Duterte, President of the Philippines
However, the Philippine government has vowed to continue its efforts to challenge the ICC's jurisdiction and undermine the investigation.
"We will continue to fight against this injustice and protect the rights of our people," said Duterte's spokesperson, Salvador Panelo.
The ICC's decision is a significant blow to Duterte, who has been accused of numerous human rights abuses during his presidency, including the extrajudicial killings of thousands of people in his war on drugs.
Resumen: El Comité Internacional de Crímenes contra la Humanidad (ICC) ha denegado la petición del presidente de Filipinas, Rodrigo Duterte, para suspender la investigación sobre la supuesta violación y asesinato de una joven de 17 años a manos de soldados en 2009. La decisión del ICC fue bienvenida por organizaciones de derechos humanos, que habían criticado a Duterte por sus esfuerzos por evadir la responsabilidad por los supuestos crímenes.
Author's Resume: This article highlights the International Criminal Court's (ICC) decision to deny the request of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to drop a probe into the alleged rape and murder of a teenager by soldiers in 2009, showcasing the ICC's commitment to upholding its mandate and protecting the rights of victims despite opposition from powerful governments.