Support for ICC Judge Miriam Santiago

To the International Criminal Court (ICC)

We, the undersigned respectfully submit our declaration of support for Dr. Miriam Santiago on her successful election to the 9-year term ICC Judge position.

We commend the Philippine government in its untiring efforts working for the successful election of Dr. Santiago as manifested in the following declaration of support:

Source: Official Website of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)

http://dfa.gov.ph/main/index.php/newsroom/dfa-releases/4342-dr-miriam-defensor-santiago-tops-election-for-international-criminal-court-judges-

Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said, "Dr. Santiago is eminently qualified. She has shown competence and commitment in defense of the rule of law. She has demonstrated her intelligence and legal acumen through her decisions that have been cited by the Philippine Supreme Court. She has shown independence and integrity in her actions. She is more than qualified for this position..indeed, it is a new day for the Philippines, a day of pride for our country and a day of honor, knowing that this is a tremendous responsibility and mandate placed upon our compatriot,"...

Dr. Santiago gained the support of States Parties for her pre-eminent expertise in the international law and outstanding experience as trial court judge...she was also seen as a symbol of women empowerment. In her statements, Dr. Santiago emphasized the unique perspective she could give as a female judge, citing that many crimes of impunity were directed at women and that many complainants were women...

Source: Official Website of the Philippine Senate
http://www.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2011/1213_santiago1.asp

Senator Santiago is the first Filipino and the first Asian from a developing state to serve as ICC judge, thus earning a place of honor for the Philippines in ICC history. Nominated by President Benigno Aquino, Senator Santiago placed No. 1 in the first round of voting when 79 states parties voted for her.

We, the undersigned, are truly humbled on the honor accorded by the ICC, not only to Dr. Santiago, but also to the Philippines.

Respectfully submitted by the undersigned.