'He should be with his family,' says Baricuatro amid Duterte ICC case

Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro on Monday, February 23, expressed concern over former President Rodrigo Duterte’s situation amid ongoing proceedings at the International Criminal Court (ICC), emphasizing that he should be allowed to be with his family.

Speaking to reporters, Baricuatro said it was difficult to watch Duterte in custody while the legal process unfolds, especially after his years of public service.

“It’s painful,” she said. “He already served the country. He should be with his family.”

The governor questioned the necessity of keeping the former president in detention during the proceedings, calling for a more compassionate approach. 

“I’m really against the President being treated like that. I really wish he could just come home and be with his family and the people he loves,” she added.

Baricuatro’s statement aligns with her long-standing support for Duterte and his political camp. 

Even before winning the 2025 gubernatorial race, she joined calls from Duterte supporters urging authorities to allow him to return home instead of facing trial abroad. 

The Duterte family publicly endorsed her candidacy, reinforcing her alignment with their political base.

Her remarks came amid ongoing criticism from some Diehard Duterte Supporters (DDS) who felt her responses to Vice President Sara Duterte’s political plans were measured.

Meanwhile, the ICC continues its investigation into allegations of crimes against humanity linked to the government’s anti-drug operations between 2013 and 2018, covering Duterte’s time as Davao City mayor and later as president. 

Among the cases under review are killings reportedly linked to the Davao Death Squad from 2013 to 2016, and deaths during nationwide anti-crime and barangay-level anti-drug campaigns from 2016 to 2018.

Although the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019, the tribunal maintains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was still a member state. (SBA)