Philippines’ Ex-President Duterte Arrested Over ‘Drug War’ Killings at ICC’s Request
ormer Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on Tuesday at Manila’s main airport at the request of the International Criminal Court (ICC), marking a major step in the investigation into thousands of killings during his brutal “war on drugs.”
Duterte, who led the Philippines from 2016 to 2022, has long defended the crackdown, claiming police acted in self-defense. If transferred to The Hague, he could become Asia’s first former head of state to stand trial at the ICC.
The ICC warrant accuses Duterte of criminal responsibility for at least 43 murders between 2011 and 2019, including during his time as mayor of Davao City. The ICC believes the real toll could be as high as 30,000 deaths.
Duterte’s arrest comes after years of defiance against the ICC, including withdrawing the Philippines from the court in 2019.
His daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, condemned the move, calling it “oppression and persecution.” Meanwhile, human rights groups welcomed the arrest, saying it is a step toward justice for thousands of victims.
The Supreme Court is now reviewing a legal challenge against the ICC’s jurisdiction, but Duterte’s fate remains uncertain as he awaits potential extradition to The Hague.
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