Manila 6th District Representative Bienvenido Abante has asserted that former President Rodrigo Duterte may be liable for crimes against humanity.
Abante believes Duterte should be held accountable for the numerous killings that occurred under his administration’s war on drugs.
The former president could face charges under Republic Act No. 9851, the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity.
During his appearance before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee yesterday, Duterte took legal responsibility for the actions of police officers involved in his anti-drug campaign, which resulted in an estimated 12,000 to 30,000 deaths.
Section 10 of RA 9851 outlines the principle of command responsibility, which holds officials accountable for the actions of their subordinates.
Abante noted that the deaths linked to Duterte’s drug war could constitute crimes against humanity under RA 9851.
Abante further stated that the International Criminal Court (ICC) could use Duterte’s sworn statements before the Senate, where he pledged to speak truthfully, as part of their investigation.