ICC Investigators Accused of Accepting Millions in Bribes by Former Philippine Marines
In a shocking development, 18 former members of the Philippine Marines have leveled serious accusations against investigators from the International Criminal Court (ICC), alleging they accepted millions in bribes from ex-Senator Antonio Trillanes and former Representative Zaldy Co. The allegations were made public during an event at Club Filipino, where lawyer Levi Baligod presented an affidavit from the soldiers detailing their claims.
Claims of Cash Deliveries and Funded Accommodations
According to the affidavit, the former Marines stated they personally delivered money to Trillanes to finance the ICC's investigation into former President Rodrigo Duterte. The soldiers, who served as executive assistants to Co, claimed they were ordered to exchange two suitcases, each containing 56 million pesos. Additionally, they alleged that when ICC investigators arrived in the Philippines in December 2023, Trillanes covered all expenses, including hotel accommodations, meals, transportation, and other costs for the foreign officials.
Baligod has refused to distribute copies of the affidavit at this time but announced plans to release it after filing a formal complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman. He also intends to provide copies to the ICC and its member countries to substantiate claims of corruption within the prosecution team.
No Immediate Response from Accused Parties
As of now, there has been no official response from the camps of Trillanes or Co regarding these allegations. The accusations add a new layer of controversy to the ongoing ICC probes into Duterte's administration, raising questions about the integrity of the investigative process.
This case highlights the complex interplay between international justice and local political dynamics, with potential implications for future ICC operations in the Philippines. The outcome of the complaint to the Ombudsman and any subsequent ICC review could significantly impact public trust and legal proceedings.
