Panelo No role in crafting Duterte’s defense at ICC

The Role of Panelo A Supporting Friend

As the International Criminal Court (ICC) confirmation of charges hearing approaches, former presidential chief legal counsel Salvador Panelo has clarified his role in supporting former President Rodrigo Duterte. In a recent radio interview, Panelo emphasized that he is not part of the official defense team and has no role in crafting Duterte's defense.

Moral Support and Witnessing

Panelo traveled to The Hague primarily as a friend of former president Rodrigo Duterte, offering moral support ahead of the ICC confirmation of charges hearing. He clarified that his initial purpose was to witness the hearings and possibly see Duterte. For now, I am here as a friend, he said.

Independent Travel Arrangements

Panelo also stressed that individual supporters and allies already made independent arrangements to travel to The Hague before the formal creation of a legal panel. I and others traveled independently, without prior coordination as part of a defense group, he explained.

Duterte's All-Filipino Legal Team

Duterte's all-Filipino legal team includes Salvador Medialdea, Martin Delgra III, Silvestre Bello III, Alfredo Lim Jr., and Caesar Dulay. Panelo welcomed the formal constitution of the team but emphasized that he has yet to assume any official function within it.

Observer and Supporter

Panelo will attend the hearings as an observer and supporter rather than as a member of the defense team. He also addressed reports suggesting he had coordinated with Duterte's lead counsel, Nicholas Kaufman. He clarified that he had never formally met or worked with Kaufman on the case.

Conclusion A Supporting Role

In conclusion, Panelo's role in supporting former President Rodrigo Duterte at the ICC confirmation of charges hearing is that of a friend and observer. While he has no involvement in crafting the defense, his moral support will likely culminate in a strong show of solidarity for the former president. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen how Panelo's presence will impact the proceedings.

Key Takeaways

Salvador Panelo traveled to The Hague as a friend and observer
He has no role in crafting Duterte's defense
Individual supporters made independent travel arrangements before the formal creation of a legal panel
Duterte's all-Filipino legal team is comprised of Salvador Medialdea, Martin Delgra III, Silvestre Bello III, Alfredo Lim Jr., and Caesar Dulay

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CEO / Co-Founder

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