Allegations of ICC Investigators' Meetings with Philippine Officials Surface

• •Former Marines allege they escorted ICC investigators in December 2023.
• •Witnesses claim meetings occurred with high-profile Philippine officials.
• •Allegations include facilitating significant cash transactions related to the ICC probe.

Former Marines testified in a Senate inquiry that they escorted ICC investigators during a December 2023 visit to the Philippines, claiming the visitors met with political figures, including former Rep. Zaldy Co and House Speaker Martin Romualdez. The witnesses alleged they facilitated cash conversions of ₱50 million to ₱60 million, although no documentation was provided. These claims were reiterated in a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing, with the whistleblower group indicating that they served as security aides for the ICC personnel. The ICC has not confirmed the visit, and the implicated officials have not publicly responded. The allegations have led to legal actions, including perjury and cyber libel complaints against the whistleblowers. The situation raises questions about the Philippine government's cooperation with the ICC amid ongoing investigations into the Duterte-era drug war.