MANILA, Philippines, March 2, 2026 — Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla has confirmed that he met with personnel from the International Criminal Court (ICC), acknowledging discussions that took place while he was still serving as Justice Secretary in 2025.

Remulla explained that former senator Antonio Trillanes IV introduced him to ICC staff members, and that the meeting focused on ensuring protection for Filipino witnesses in the ICC’s investigation into alleged crimes against humanity linked to former president Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs. 

“Totoo ‘yun [na nakipagkita ako sa ICC personnel]. Nakipag-usap ako kay Trillanes, pinakilala niya sa akin ‘yung ICC [personnel]… Kasi nga, meron kaming usapan na ang testigo, dapat protektahan iyong testigo ng ICC,” Remulla said.

The confirmation comes amid a separate controversy involving 18 former Marines who, through their lawyer Levi Baligod, submitted an affidavit to the Office of the Ombudsman alleging that suitcases “full of money” were delivered to top officials and even to ICC investigators. 

Baligod claimed that these transactions compromised the integrity of the ICC’s probe into Duterte’s drug war. “Ni-refer namin sa Office of the Ombudsman para magkaroon lamang ng prima facie proof na merong offense na na-commit at ang mga napangalanan doon ay guilty sa mga offenses na ito,” Baligod explained.

The Palace dismissed the allegations as baseless, with Press Officer Claire Castro calling them “lousy scriptwriting” and “repeated lies against the President.” 

Meanwhile, the ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor declined to comment directly on the bribery claims, stressing that all its operations are funded through its official budget under strict oversight mechanisms. It emphasized that evidence collection and witness protection are governed by confidentiality rules and judicial oversight.

Remulla, for his part, rejected accusations of collusion, clarifying that his discussions with ICC personnel were limited to witness protection and not about undermining Philippine sovereignty. He maintained that his actions were consistent with safeguarding Filipino citizens who may be called to testify in the ICC’s probe.

The ICC investigation into Duterte’s anti-drug campaign continues to be a flashpoint in Philippine politics, with the government insisting that domestic institutions are capable of handling accountability. 

The new allegations by the ex-Marines, combined with Remulla’s admission, are expected to intensify debates over the country’s stance toward the ICC and the credibility of international justice mechanisms.