- Authorities arrested former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in Manila under an ICC warrant for alleged crimes against humanity. Duterte faces trial for his administration’s war on drugs, resulting in thousands of extrajudicial killings.
- The ICC investigated Duterte for mass killings under his leadership, citing estimates of 12,000 to 30,000 deaths during his presidency.
- Duterte’s arrest raises questions about extradition to The Hague, as the Philippine government sends mixed signals on cooperation with the ICC.
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Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested Tuesday, March 11, in Manila under a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Authorities detained Duterte, 79, at the airport upon his return from Hong Kong.
The warrant stems from the ICC’s ongoing investigation into his administration’s war on drugs, which led to thousands of extrajudicial killings.
Duterte, who served as president from 2016 to 2022, openly supported the execution of suspected drug offenders. His administration’s anti-drug campaign resulted in widespread allegations of human rights abuses, drawing international condemnation.
What are the accusations against Duterte?
The ICC has been investigating Duterte for crimes against humanity, citing mass killings under his leadership. Estimates vary on the total death toll, with Human Rights Watch reporting at least 12,000 deaths in the first two years of his presidency and some estimates reaching 20,000 to 30,000 victims over six years.
The Philippine government acknowledged at least 6,252 deaths in police anti-drug operations by mid-2022.
Critics argued Duterte encouraged police and vigilantes to execute suspected criminals without due process. He once compared himself to Adolf Hitler, saying he would be “happy to slaughter” drug addicts to protect the country.
How has Duterte responded?
Duterte repeatedly denied the allegations and dismissed the ICC’s jurisdiction over the Philippines.
In 2019, he formally withdrew the country from the ICC, arguing it had no right to investigate crimes committed within Philippine borders.
While in Hong Kong, Duterte reportedly stated that he would accept his arrest, framing his actions as necessary for peace and stability.
What happens next?
The Philippine government, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has given mixed signals regarding cooperation with the ICC.
Marcos previously stated that his administration would not assist the ICC’s investigation, yet officials have acknowledged their obligation to comply with Interpol requests related to the case.
Duterte’s arrest raises questions about whether Manila will extradite him to The Hague. If transferred to the ICC, he would face trial for alleged crimes against humanity.
However, political and legal challenges could complicate the process, especially given Duterte’s influence and lingering support within the country.
