By Filane Mikee Cervantes
MANILA – Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. on Thursday commended the Philippine Embassy in The Hague for providing assistance to former President Rodrigo Duterte and his companions, calling it a reflection of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “compassionate leadership.”
“We commend the Embassy and its staff for extending assistance. We believe it was part of their job – to help any Filipino in distress in their assigned area, whether he is a former official or ordinary overseas Filipino worker or tourist,” Gonzales said in a statement.
Gonzales said the embassy’s action demonstrated the Marcos administration’s commitment to humanitarian law, as he noted that Duterte’s stay in The Hague in The Netherlands to face the International Criminal Court (ICC) would allow him to address accusations against him “in the proper forum.”
“As a legislator, I remain steadfast in upholding the principles of international law, ensuring that our policies and decisions not only align with our legal obligations but also uphold the highest global standards of justice, accountability, and cooperation,” he said.
According to reports, the Philippine Embassy in The Hague provided consular assistance to Duterte and his companions, which include former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea.
The embassy also secured two-day visas for Duterte’s aides and a nurse to allow them to rest before their return flight.
Medialdea, meanwhile, was granted a 15-day visa. (PNA)
