Members of the Makabayan bloc have appealed to the Marcos administration to return the Philippines to the International Criminal Court, arguing that rejoining the tribunal is necessary amid ongoing developments tied to former president Rodrigo Duterte.
In a statement reported on February 24, 2026, Makabayan lawmakers called on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to take steps to place the country back under the ICC’s jurisdiction. The group raised the appeal as legal proceedings linked to Duterte continue before the international court.
Makabayan said the Philippines’ withdrawal from the ICC limited the country’s engagement with international accountability mechanisms. They urged the administration to reconsider that position and restore membership. “Rejoining the ICC would send a clear and strong message that the Philippines honors its international obligations, respects the sanctity of life, and is committed to breaking the cycle of impunity and state violence,” the group said.
They added, “Reengagement with the ICC would strengthen the country’s global reputation as a rights-respecting democracy, restore international confidence in the Philippines’ legal system and bolster partnerships rooted in justice, good governance, and the rule of law.”
The appeal was directed at the executive branch, which holds the authority to initiate the process of rejoining the Rome Statute. Makabayan lawmakers stressed that returning to the ICC would signal commitment to international law and strengthen institutional accountability.
The Marcos administration has yet to issue a formal response to the appeal.
