Cebu Governor Advocates for Duterte's Return Amid ICC Proceedings
In the midst of mounting criticism from supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte regarding her perceived "restrained" stance, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro has publicly called for Duterte to return to the Philippines rather than face trial before the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands. As a staunch Duterte supporter herself, Baricuatro reiterated her firm opposition to the ICC trial, emphasizing that Duterte should be with his family and constituents instead of being imprisoned abroad.
Baricuatro's Emotional Appeal and ICC Hearing Details
Speaking to reporters on Monday, February 23, 2026, Governor Baricuatro expressed her sentiments, stating, "He's already served the country. He should be with his family, with his constituents and yet he's out there being imprisoned." This statement came shortly after the ICC's Pre-Trial Chamber I conducted a confirmation of charges hearing against Duterte at 5 p.m. Philippine time on the same day. The hearing addressed serious allegations of crimes against humanity linked to Duterte's controversial anti-drug campaign, which has been a focal point of international scrutiny.
The ICC proceedings specifically examined allegations involving killings in Davao City from 2013 to 2016, the deaths of supposed high-value targets from 2016 to 2017, and incidents of deaths and attempted killings during anti-drug operations spanning from 2016 to 2018. Presiding Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc underscored the principle of presumption of innocence, noting that Duterte is considered innocent unless proven guilty. Notably, Duterte did not attend the hearing after waiving his right to appear, with his lead counsel, Nicholas Kaufman, representing him in the proceedings.
Focus on Service Over Legal and Political Aspects
Governor Baricuatro chose not to comment on the legal intricacies of the case, instead highlighting Duterte's extensive years of public service. She passionately remarked, "I'm really against the former president being treated like that. How I wish nga mabalik siya diri (he could return here) and be with his family and the people he loves." When questioned about her political stance, Baricuatro clarified that her primary focus remains on governance rather than political maneuvering. She asserted, "Ang importante, ang akong priority ang people not politics (The important thing is that my priority is the people, not politics). Serbisyo lang una ang atong hunahuna, maybe politics later na na (Let's think about service first, maybe politics can come later)."
"Color-Blind" Stance and Political Backlash
In a recent interview on February 18, Baricuatro welcomed Vice President Sara Duterte's announcement to run for president in the 2028 elections but declined to elaborate further, describing herself as "color-blind" in politics and focused on serving Cebu. This stance, however, drew criticism from some Duterte supporters who viewed her earlier responses as too "restrained" and "conservative," expecting a more forceful alignment. In response, Baricuatro took to social media on Saturday, February 21, to reaffirm her commitment, stating, "Please allow me to serve the people, as I promised." It is worth noting that Duterte endorsed Baricuatro's successful 2025 gubernatorial bid, a move that political observers believe significantly contributed to her electoral victory.
