Bong Go denies ICC claims: ‘I only did my job in accordance with laws’
Senator Christopher 'Bong' Go firmly denied allegations from the International Criminal Court (ICC) Office of the Prosecutor, where his name was identified as an alleged co-perpetrator. He reiterated his commitment to the welfare of Filipinos and stated the claims are unfounded and beyond the scope of his previous government roles.
Senator Christopher 'Bong' Go has firmly denied allegations made by the International Criminal Court (ICC) Office of the Prosecutor in a February 13, 2026 redacted document that identified him as an alleged co-perpetrator in former President Rodrigo Duterte's drug war case. Go stated that he only performed his duties in accordance with laws during his time as Special Assistant to the President and later as senator, emphasizing that his actions followed both human and divine laws to help Filipinos, especially the underprivileged. He claimed to have been guided by Duterte's moral influence without receiving any illegal orders, describing the ICC claims as unfounded and beyond the scope of his actual responsibilities.
The ICC developments have significant implications, with an ICC lawyer indicating that arrest warrants are likely to be issued against both Senator Bong Go and Senator Ronald dela Rosa. This has prompted discussions in the Philippine Senate about traditions protecting senators from arrest during legislative sessions. Deputy Majority Leader Risa Hontiveros noted that a potential caucus might be held, though Senate President Vicente Sotto III clarified that no official ICC notifications have been received by the Senate as of February 2026.
In related ICC proceedings, former President Rodrigo Duterte appealed to skip his ICC confirmation of charges hearing, arguing that the court lacks jurisdiction following the Philippines' withdrawal from the Rome Statute in 2018. However, ICC prosecutors formally opposed this request, stating that Duterte has no valid reason to skip the pre-trial hearing. The pre-trial judges are currently awaiting a decision on this matter. Malacañang has confirmed that any turnover of individuals to the ICC would be lawful due to residual obligations from the Philippines' 2011 ratification period of the Rome Statute.
The Philippine Senate minority has introduced a resolution seeking to protect Filipinos from ICC surrender, citing risks to Senators Go and dela Rosa. Go has maintained that the ICC allegations will not distract him from his legislative duties focused on public welfare, reiterating his commitment to serving Filipinos despite the international legal challenges he faces.
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