Palace laughs off Colmenares claim

Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo. INQUIRER file photo

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Sunday laughed off former Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Colmenares’s claim that President Rodrigo Duterte might be arrested soon after the International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor decided to conclude next year the preliminary examination of the complaints for crimes against humanity filed against him.

“First of all, maybe that’s the fervent wish [of Colmenares]. But that will not happen,”presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in an interview with Radyo Inquirer.

“Secondly, the ICC has no jurisdiction [over the President]. So [it will be] ineffective. Even if [the ICC] issues a warrant, how will they enforce it?”he said. —Marlon Ramos