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In a recent wave of misinformation circulating on social media, a fabricated quote card featuring human rights lawyer Kristina Conti has been debunked as false. The fraudulent post claimed that Conti, an International Criminal Court (ICC)-accredited assistant to counsel, had stated she would “resign and leave the extrajudicial killing case if the death penalty is reinstated” in the Philippines.
The misleading content gained significant traction online, amassing over 5,200 reactions, 4,000 comments, and 152 shares since its posting on January 19. The timing coincided with the ICC’s renewed call for additional witnesses in the investigation of killings that occurred during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial drug war.
The fabricated quote card incorrectly labeled Conti as “Rep. Conti,” falsely implying she holds a position in the House of Representatives. The card attributed the following statement to her: “Kung ibalik man ang death penalty mag resign nalang ako. Iwanan ko [muna] itong EJK [extrajudicial killings].” This translates to: “If the death penalty is reinstated, I will resign. I will leave this EJK [case] for now.”
Fact-checking reveals multiple inaccuracies in the post. First, Conti is not a lawmaker but a practicing attorney. Second, the post failed to provide any credible source or interview supporting its claim that Conti made such a statement. Additionally, there are currently no active legislative initiatives to reinstate capital punishment in the Philippines, which was abolished in 2006. In October 2025, the presidential office confirmed no discussions were underway to revive the death penalty.
While Conti has not recently made public statements specifically addressing capital punishment, the National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers (NUPL), where she serves as regional secretary general, has firmly opposed the death penalty. In 2020, the NUPL joined with other legal organizations to argue that capital punishment disproportionately affects economically disadvantaged individuals and risks irreversible judicial errors.
Conti plays a significant role in the ongoing ICC case against former President Duterte, who faces crimes against humanity charges related to his administration’s drug war. She represents some of the victims of alleged extrajudicial killings during this period. Conti previously clarified her professional position, explaining that as an ICC assistant to counsel, she provides legal support to ICC-accredited lawyers, who are the ones authorized to formally represent defendants or victims before the international tribunal.
The ICC has officially designated Filipino attorneys Joel Butuyan and Gilbert Andres as common legal representatives for the victims in this high-profile case. Both hold formal accreditation as counsels with the ICC.
The investigation into alleged crimes during Duterte’s anti-drug campaign led to the former president’s arrest in March 2025. While initially required to attend the confirmation of charges hearing scheduled for February 23, Duterte was subsequently excused from these proceedings following a waiver he submitted. ICC spokesperson Oriane Maillet emphasized that “the suspect’s absence next week is based on the waiver of the suspect, not on reasons related to health.”
This fabricated quote card represents just one instance in a broader pattern of misinformation targeting figures involved in the ICC’s investigation into the Philippines’ drug war, requiring continued vigilance from media organizations and the public alike.
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7 Comments
While the death penalty is a highly charged and complex issue, we must be careful not to spread unverified information. I appreciate the diligence in fact-checking and correcting this fabricated quote.
Absolutely. Maintaining the integrity of public discourse, especially around legal and human rights matters, is vital. This case underscores the need for responsible reporting and informed dialogue.
It’s concerning to see the spread of misinformation, even on topics as serious as the death penalty and extrajudicial killings. I’m glad the facts have been clarified, and I hope this serves as a reminder to be cautious about unverified claims.
This is a good example of why we need rigorous fact-checking, especially on issues with significant social and political implications. I’m curious to learn more about the ICC’s investigation and Conti’s role as an accredited counsel.
It’s good to see the fabricated quote attributed to Kristina Conti being debunked. Spreading misinformation, especially around legal and human rights issues, can be very harmful. I’m glad the facts are being set straight.
This highlights the importance of verifying information, especially on sensitive topics like the death penalty and human rights. I’m curious to learn more about the ICC’s investigation into the killings during Duterte’s drug war and Conti’s role as an accredited assistant to counsel.
Yes, it’s crucial that we scrutinize claims and sources, especially on contentious issues. I hope the ICC investigation can shed light on what happened and hold any responsible parties accountable.