Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested in Manila on an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant, signaling a significant moment in international justice. The ICC has accused Duterte of crimes against humanity linked to his controversial anti-drug campaign, during which thousands reportedly lost their lives. Duterte, who had previously dismissed these allegations, was apprehended at Manila International Airport after returning from Hong Kong.
During his presidency, Duterte's war on drugs was marked by widespread reports of extrajudicial killings, drawing severe criticism from human rights organizations globally. Despite withdrawing the Philippines from the ICC's jurisdiction in 2019, the court pursued charges due to the gravity of the alleged offenses. The arrest comes amid a political climate where Duterte's successor, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has shown a willingness to cooperate with international bodies, contrary to Duterte's previous stance.
The ICC's investigation, which began under the Rome Statute, aims to hold Duterte accountable for his actions as both president and former mayor of Davao City. Human Rights Watch and other advocacy groups have welcomed the arrest, viewing it as a step towards justice for the victims of the drug war. Meanwhile, Duterte's daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, is facing her own political challenges, including an impeachment process.
This development has further strained relations within the Philippine political scene, as Duterte's allies have condemned the arrest. Nonetheless, this move by the ICC underscores its commitment to addressing alleged human rights violations, regardless of national boundaries.
