State officials and employees are accountable if they defy orders and policies of the government, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ).

The DOJ made the statement in connection to recent reports that Philippine police officers talked to the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC is currently investigating into the drug war of former president Rodrigo Duterte.

DOJ Assistant Secretary and spokesman Mico Clavano said government officials or employees may be held accountable if they go against the government’s policy relating to the ICC probe.

Clavano stood firm that the Philippines has been very consistent that it does not recognize the ICC investigation as the country has a working justice system.

“As mentioned by the Solicitor General, this is a government policy. So, when a government officer or official is coordinating with the ICC against the direction, orders and the policy of the government, there may be accountability involved,” Clavano said.

“If there’s any law enforcement or government official that goes against the policies and orders of the authorities in position, then obviously there will be some sort of conflict of interest, there will be accountabilities and definitely liabilities that go with it,” he added.

Clavano said the Philippines is committed to hold responsible and accountable erring lawmen involved in summary executions during the previous administration.

“So, even without verifying the information, the government’s stance is consistent ever since; the President has been very firm by saying we will not recognize the jurisdiction of the ICC because we indeed have a very well and robust justice system,” Clavano said.

Clavano also stressed that government officials should follow ethical guidelines as stated under Republic Act 6713.

Asked if retired officials are covered under the provision, Clavano admitted the government has “little to hold them over” if they are acting in their civilian or personal capacities as far as the ICC probe is concerned. PND