SC conducts special raffle for petition seeking Duterte’s release

The Supreme Court (SC) has conducted a special raffle for the handing of a petition seeking the release of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who was arrested early Tuesday on the basis of a warrant from the International Criminal Court.

“Given the significance of this case and upon the Chief Justice’s instructions, a special raffle has been conducted,” High Court spokesperson Camille Ting said in a statement.

She said this is pursuant to Rule 7, Section 7 of the Internal Rules of the SC.

In their petition, Duterte and Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa asked the SC for the issuance of a temporary restraining order prohibiting the government from cooperating with the International Criminal Court (ICC) on its investigation on the Duterte administration’s drug war as well as in assisting the tribunal from enforcing arrest warrants, summons, or requests.

They also asked for the TRO to prohibit the government from coordinating and providing assistance to the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) or any foreign law agency regarding the execution of warrants.

“…and if already arrested, that the Honorable Court order that the petitioners or any other individuals in connection with the ICC’s investigation be immediately released,” the petition read.

This came hours after the arrest of Duterte at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 for alleged crimes against humanity. — BM, GMA Integrated News