Palace downplays senators’ appeal over PH’s ICC withdrawal

Malacañang tells minority senators “good luck” in their appeal contesting the Philippines’ membership withdrawal in the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Senators Leila De Lima, Risa Hontiveros, Franklin Drilon, Francis Pangilinan, Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV and Antonio Trillanes IV asked the Supreme Court (SC) on Wednesday to declare the country’s withdrawal in the ICC as “invalid” due to the Senate’s absence of approval.

But Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque downplayed this, saying the president has the power to quit the country’s membership in the ICC sans Senate support, as the latter only has a hand in approving international agreements but not in terminating.

“The only requirement is when a treaty can become valid as part of the laws of the land and that is Senate concurrence.

There is no requirement if we decide to exit in a treaty,” Roque said.

He added that when it comes to international policy, the Chief Executive “remains the chief architect.

”

DAILY NEWS ROUND UP FOR 05/ 17 /18