Former President Rodrigo Duterte can still be sworn in as Mayor-elect of Davao City even if he is detained by the International Criminal Court (ICC), according to Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero.
In a press briefing, Escudero explained that Duterte can take his oath of office through the Philippine consular office in The Hague, Netherlands, where the ICC is located.
As Duterte is unable to return to the Philippines, Escudero cited the Local Government Code, stating that Vice Mayor-elect Baste Duterte, his son, would assume the mayoral duties in the interim.
Escudero emphasized that Duterte retains his right to assume office under the rules of The Hague and that there are legal mechanisms for such cases.
The Senate President also expressed doubt that the ICC holds the power to disqualify Duterte from holding public office, even if convicted.
He clarified that even if Duterte is found guilty, it does not automatically result in absolute perpetual disqualification, as such penalties only apply to specific offenses and the ICC does not fall under Philippine jurisdiction.