Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested following a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) over allegations related to his deadly “war on drugs.” His detention marks a significant moment in the ongoing scrutiny of the anti-narcotics campaign that has drawn global condemnation.
Duterte was taken into custody upon arrival in Manila from Hong Kong and is now heading to The Hague. His arrest came shortly after a tumultuous meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, where tensions concerning the ongoing conflict were palpable.
During his term from 2016 to 2022, thousands of suspected drug dealers and users were killed under Duterte’s policies, leading to accusations of human rights abuses. He has remained unapologetic about his approach, stating, “I did what I had to do… I hate drugs, make no mistake about it.”
The current administration, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., initially expressed reluctance to cooperate with the ICC investigation. However, as relations with the Duterte family have soured, the Marcos government’s stance has shifted.
Marcos’s government aims to move toward a less violent strategy in addressing drug-related issues, yet reports indicate that drug-related killings continue under his leadership. The legal pursuit of accountability for Duterte’s actions not only serves as an important step for justice but also reflects shifting political dynamics in the Philippines.
Duterte’s daughter, Sara, who holds the position of vice president, has sustained her father’s popularity and is viewed as a potential candidate for the presidency in 2028, as her father’s influence lingers in Philippine politics.
The developments surrounding Duterte’s arrest have prompted reactions from various stakeholders, with China’s foreign ministry closely monitoring the situation and cautioning against “politicization” of international legal proceedings. The implications of this arrest are far-reaching, calling into question the legacy of Duterte’s controversial policies and the future of governance in the Philippines.
Credit: BBC News
