Rodrigo Duterte arrested over ICC warrant on drug war killings

By Daisy Okiring

Rodrigo Duterte, the former president of the Philippines, has been taken into custody following an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) over allegations of crimes against humanity linked to his brutal anti-drug campaign.

The 79-year-old ex-leader was detained at Manila’s airport upon his return from Hong Kong, where he had been rallying support for the upcoming midterm elections scheduled for May 12. Expressing disbelief over his arrest, Duterte asked, “What crime have I committed?”

Controversy surrounding arrest

Duterte’s former spokesperson, Salvador Panelo, strongly opposed the arrest, labeling it “illegal” on the grounds that the Philippines officially withdrew from the ICC in 2019. However, the ICC asserts that it still holds authority over offenses committed before the country’s exit.

Human rights advocates, on the other hand, celebrated the arrest as a “landmark step toward justice” for the countless victims of Duterte’s drug war. “Justice may take time, but today marks a crucial moment,” said Peter Murphy, Chairperson of the International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines (ICHRP).

A legacy of violence and controversy

Before his presidency, Duterte governed Davao City for 22 years, earning a reputation as a hardline leader. During his term as president from 2016 to 2022, his controversial drug war resulted in over 6,000 officially documented deaths—though human rights organizations argue that the actual number is significantly higher. The majority of those killed were reportedly poor urban residents, with accusations that law enforcement officers acted with impunity.

Despite international criticism, Duterte continues to enjoy strong support in the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao, his home region. His daughter, Sara Duterte, currently serves as the country’s vice president and is widely seen as a potential presidential candidate in 2028.

Political tensions and uncertain extradition

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., once closely aligned with the Duterte family, initially resisted the ICC’s investigation into the drug war. However, as tensions between the two political factions have grown, Marcos has adopted a more neutral stance.