The resolution emphasizes that Duterte has now been detained for over 100 days at the ICC detention center as he awaits trial for alleged crimes against humanity in connection with his anti-illegal drugs campaign. The senators stressed that Duterte’s advanced age, deteriorating health, and isolation from family warrant urgent humanitarian consideration.
Duterte’s family members who have visited him reported that his condition has worsened significantly. They described drastic weight loss caused by appetite loss aggravated by the cold climate in The Hague, remarking that Duterte is weak, struggling to walk, “skin and bones,” and no longer resembling his previous image.
The resolution notes that Duterte, in a video message uploaded on March 13, while en route to The Hague, reaffirmed his readiness to face proceedings, signaling that he has no intent to evade accountability for the service and sacrifices he made for the country.
In the proposed resolution, the senators also recalled reports that upon Duterte’s arrival in the Netherlands, he was reportedly offered the possibility of house arrest in a rented residence with access to his own doctor, nurse, and family members. However, no developments on this option have since materialized.
While acknowledging that the Philippines withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2019, the senators stressed that this does not preclude the government from advocating for humane treatment for a Filipino citizen and former president. They called on the Philippine government to act swiftly and in good conscience, engaging diplomatically with the ICC to secure an arrangement that ensures Duterte’s health and dignity while proceedings continue.
The resolution concludes by affirming the senators’ position that humanitarian considerations must guide the government’s engagement with the ICC on this matter, ensuring that Duterte is afforded humane conditions consistent with his age, health, and service to the nation.
Senator Go then made a heartfelt appeal to the Filipino people: “Kaya nananawagan po ako sa buong sambayanang Pilipino. Ipagdasal po natin ang kalusugan, kaligtasan, at kalayaan ni Tatay Digong. Huwag po tayong tumigil hangga't hindi siya nakakauwi.”
Despite the resolution prioritizing the welfare of former president Duterte given current circumstances, Senator Go remains firm on his stand that the Philippines has a working judicial system that could determine accountability of any citizen in accordance with its own laws.
Go challenged fellow Filipinos to reflect honestly on the gains of Duterte’s anti-crime policies. “Pilipino na po ang humusga kung sa tingin ninyong mas nakakalakad ba ang inyong mga anak na hindi nasasaktan at hindi nababastos,” he declared.
Senator Go also underscored his respect and gratitude for Duterte, whom he credits as his inspiration for public service.
“Naging inspirasyon ko si Tatay Digong sa aking pagseserbisyo sa mga Pilipino. Kaya napakalaki ng aking pasasalamat sa kanya. Hinding-hindi ‘yan matutumbasan ng kahit ano pa man. Salamat sa kanyang mga advice sa akin, mga pangaral, at mga paalala,” Go consistently said.
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