Press Release
December 15, 2011

Legarda Hails Sen. Santiago's Historic Win as ICC Judge

Senator Loren Legarda welcomed the historic victory of Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago having been elected as a judge in the International Criminal Court during the 10th session of the Assembly of States Parties in New York.

Legarda said that Santiago's election marked numerous "firsts" in the history of the ICC as it is the first time that a Filipino and a female judge from a developing Asian country has been elected to the ICC.

"The resounding manner by which Senator Santiago was elected, having topped the first round of the elections with 79 of 104 votes, highlights her outstanding qualifications and qualities of leadership. As a former trial court judge and being an expert in international law, Senator Santiago is much qualified for the position" she said.

Legarda explained that Santiago bested other candidates and received more than the required two-thirds majority of the total number of votes cast, signaling strong support from State Parties.

"As a fellow Filipino and a colleague in the Senate, I take pride in her achievements. This remarkable feat likewise brings honor to our nation," the Chair of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations stressed.

In congratulating Santiago, Legarda said "I am confident that you will bring to the ICC an inspired contribution to its work with the view to serving the global cause to end impunity for perpetrators of the most serious crimes of international concern."

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