Drug war victims are strongly opposing the "Request for Leave to Appeal" filed by the camp of former President Rodrigo Duterte against the confirmed charges at the International Criminal Court (ICC). In a 12-page document dated May 4, the Common Legal Representatives of the Victims (CLRV) argued that the defense failed to identify any issue meeting the requirements under the Rome Statute provisions.
Victims' Legal Team Dismisses Defense Arguments
The representatives of the victims stated that the defense's request merely repeats arguments already decided and rejected by Pre-Trial Chamber I. They added that this demonstrates the defense's disagreement with the Chamber's reasoning and assessment of evidence, rather than raising new legal questions.
The victims' side maintains that the case against Duterte should proceed regarding the crimes against humanity that occurred in the Philippines. The document was signed by lawyers Atty. Gilbert Andres, Atty. Joel Butuyan, and Principal Counsel of the Office of Public Counsel for Victims (OPCV) Paolina Massidda.
Background of the Appeal Request
On April 29, the legal team of the former president requested permission from the ICC to file an appeal concerning the decision of Pre-Trial Chamber I that confirmed the charges against Duterte. The victims now urge the court to deny the request and move forward with the trial.
