De Lima files resolution urging government to rejoin ICC

Mamamayang Liberal party-list Representative Leila de Lima has filed House Resolution No. 1056, urging the Philippine government to rejoin the International Criminal Court (ICC). This move, coming amidst the ICC ongoing trial preparations for former President Rodrigo Duterte over alleged crimes against humanity, reignites a contentious debate about justice, sovereignty, and the Philippines' international standing. The resolution seeks to reverse the Philippines' 2019 withdrawal from the Rome Statute, initiated by Duterte as the ICC began scrutinizing his deadly 'War on Drugs' campaign. While de Lima champions re-accession as vital for upholding the rule of law and fighting impunity, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. administration has consistently stated it has no current plans to rejoin, although it remains open to future review. This political tug-of-war unfolds as the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I recently confirmed all charges against Duterte, committing him to a trial expected to open in November 2026. The resolution now faces the complex legislative process, requiring significant political will to overcome the executive's reluctance. The Department of Foreign Affairs will be key in any potential re-accession efforts, while international human rights advocates will closely watch how the Marcos administration navigates domestic political pressures against global calls for accountability. The unfolding trial of a former head of state only intensifies the urgency of the Philippines' decision regarding its place in the international justice system.