ICC arrest chance for Duterte to prove innocence, says Benitez
BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Albee Benitez here said that the International Criminal Court arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte will enable the former Chief Executive to prove his innocence over the deadly war on drugs.

BENITEZ (Glazyl Masculino)
Benitez said Duterte has been provided with due process with his arrest and that everyone accused of a crime is entitled to a fair trial.
“I think this is his day to prove his innocence,” Benitez said in reaction to the arrest of Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity.
Benitez said that all accused persons are given a day in court.
NEDA office
Meanwhile, Benitez graced the opening of the National Economic and Development Authority-Negros Island Region (NIR) office at the Carlos Hilado Memorial State University campus in Barangay Alijis here on Monday, March 10.
Also in attendance were NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Arecio Casing Jr., officer-in-charge regional director of the NEDA-NIR, CHMSU President Norberto Mangulabnan, Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, and Negros Oriental Rep. Jocelyn Limkaichong.
Balisacan said that the new NEDA office represents the enduring mission to empower regions, tackle unique challenges, and unlock vast potential.
“This moment marks a historic milestone, not just for the NIR’s journey toward progress, but also for NEDA, as we proudly open our 16th regional office, reaffirming our commitment to inclusive, region-driven development,” he said.