Malacañang said the recent arrest and surrender of former president Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court (ICC) did not change the view of foreign investors of the Philippines.

In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the Palace is not concerned as to the possible effects of Duterte's arrest to the government's quest to attract investors.

"Hindi po naaalarma ang administasyon patungkol po sa investors (The administration is not alarmed when it comes to investors)," she said on Monday, March 17.

"Ang mga foreign investors po mas gusto po nila na ang bansa at ang mga leader ay sumusunod sa batas (Foreign investors want countries and leaders who follow the law)," she added.

According to Castro, foreign investors do not want countries that coddle those involved in crimes against humanity, particularly murder.

"Hindi po inaayunan talaga 'yan ng mga foreign investors na magkanlong ka ng mga taong involved sa mga krimen (Foreign investors do not want countries that hide people involved in crimes)," she said.

The government said that Duterte's arrest was done in compliance with the country's commitment to Interpol, which served the former president's arrest warrant.

Duterte was arrested and surrendered to the ICC last week. He faced the ICC for the first time, albeit virtually, on March 14. His confirmation of charges hearing is on Sept. 23.