MISLEADING: PBBM firm against rejoining ICC over concerns about the 2028 elections

Enzo Verzosa

A post claimed that President Marcos Jr. closed the country’s doors for a return to the International Criminal Court (ICC),  stating concerns over the upcoming 2028 presidential elections.

CLAIM 

PBBM refuses to rejoin the ICC ahead of the 2028 elections out of fear that a Sara Duterte presidency could lead to his surrender to the Netherlands to face trial before the tribunal.

RATING: MISLEADING

CONCLUSION

President Marcos Jr.’s refusal to rejoin the ICC stems from national sovereignty concerns, not worries over prosecution under a potential Duterte presidency.

FACTS: 

• The most recent statement on the issue dates back to March 2026, when Malacanang reiterated that the Philippines will not return to the International Criminal Court (ICC). Despite this, Marcos has not completely ruled out the possibility, having previously noted that options remain “under study” for future discussions.
• His reason cited sovereignty issues, maintaining that the country’s local courts are fully functional and capable of handling investigations without foreign intervention.
• To date, the president has made no remarks linking the ICC issue to the upcoming 2028 elections.

BOTTOMLINE

The post manufactures an unverified political motive.