Rodrigo Duterte Faces Arrest on ICC Warrant for Drug War Killings

Galaxy Tribune Report

Duterte Detained Upon Arrival in Manila
Authorities arrested former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on March 11 at Manila’s international airport after he arrived from Hong Kong. The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for his arrest, accusing him of crimes against humanity linked to his violent war on drugs. The presidential palace confirmed his detention and stated that officials are handling the situation according to legal protocols.

Crackdown on Drugs Sparks International Investigation
Duterte, who served as president from 2016 to 2022, led a brutal anti-drug campaign that resulted in thousands of deaths. Rights groups claim that law enforcement officials and vigilantes killed tens of thousands of people, many of whom were unarmed suspects. Although Duterte denied these allegations, human rights organizations continue to demand justice for the victims. During his presidency, he often defended his controversial policies, once stating that he would be happy to kill millions of drug addicts.

Legal Battle and International Response
Despite the Philippines withdrawing from the ICC in 2019, the court asserts its jurisdiction over crimes committed before the withdrawal. ICC prosecutors estimate that between 12,000 and 30,000 people died due to Duterte’s war on drugs. However, police officials reject accusations of unlawful executions and claim that suspects died while resisting arrest. Activists argue that only a few officers faced prosecution for these killings, forcing families to seek justice through the ICC.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. previously stated that his government would cooperate with an ICC-issued arrest warrant. Salvador Panelo, Duterte’s former lawyer and spokesperson, criticized the arrest, calling it unlawful. He also claimed that Duterte lacked legal representation at the time of his detention.

Duterte’s Influence and Political Impact
Even after leaving office, Duterte continues to wield significant influence in Philippine politics. His daughter, Sara Duterte, serves as the current vice president. While some supporters believe his policies strengthened national security, critics argue that his drug war led to widespread human rights abuses. Protesters gathered outside Villamor Air Base in Manila, expressing both support and condemnation of his arrest.

The ICC, headquartered in The Hague, investigates genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. In 2021, the court temporarily suspended its probe after Philippine officials claimed they were conducting their own investigation. However, in July 2023, ICC judges ruled that the inquiry could proceed. Since then, global human rights organizations have urged the Philippine government to ensure accountability for the thousands of lives lost during Duterte’s campaign against drugs.