In a dramatic development that could reshape the trajectory of the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) investigation into the Duterte administration’s drug war, former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) general manager Royina Garma has agreed to testify against former president Rodrigo R. Duterte.

Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed Monday that Garma, who was recently deported from the United States after her asylum request was denied, flew to Malaysia to meet with ICC officials. Her return to the Philippines was closely monitored, though she remains free from any active arrest warrant and is currently listed under an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO).

“She’s going to Malaysia to meet with the ICC… our working relationship with the ICC involves witness protection,” Remulla stated.

He emphasized that Garma’s safety was a key concern, citing potential threats from “uniformed personnel” who may be implicated in the investigation.

Garma, a former police colonel, previously testified before the House quad Committee investigating the Duterte drug war. She claimed Duterte had instructed her to find an officer capable of implementing the so-called “Davao model” nationwide—a system she described as involving “payments and rewards.”

Her testimony is expected to play a pivotal role in the ICC’s confirmation hearing later this month, where charges against Duterte will be formally reviewed.

Remulla revealed that former senator Antonio Trillanes IV had been instrumental in facilitating Garma’s communication with the ICC. While the Philippines does not maintain an official relationship with the court, Remulla stressed the DOJ’s responsibility to protect Filipino witnesses who may be called to testify.

“We have to protect our witnesses… it’s just right that the DOJ protects the citizens who may be inclined to testify,” he said.

Despite her cooperation with the ICC, Garma remains entangled in legal issues at home. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) filed murder and frustrated murder charges against her earlier this year in connection with the 2020 killing of PCSO board secretary Wesley Barayuga.

Remulla clarified that Garma’s ICC testimony does not exempt her from accountability in domestic cases.

The Wesley Barayuga case is equally important… She has a commitment to testify here also,” he added.

Garma’s decision to testify marks a significant shift in the ICC’s case, potentially bolstering the prosecution’s narrative of systemic abuses under Duterte’s leadership. As hearings approach, the Philippine government faces mounting pressure to balance international cooperation with domestic legal obligations.

The coming weeks may prove critical in determining how far the ICC’s investigation will reach—and whether Garma’s testimony will open the floodgates for more insiders to speak out. (PNA)