The International Criminal Court (ICC) has taken custody of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who faces a warrant for crimes against humanity related to the deadly anti-drugs operations conducted during his presidency. This move has been welcomed by human rights organizations and the families of victims who see it as an essential step in seeking justice. ICC’s chief prosecutor emphasized the importance of holding those accountable for severe crimes.
Duterte, who is 79, was flown from Manila to the Netherlands, complying with an ICC request for his arrest. His supporters have criticized the current administration under President Ferdinand Marcos for cooperating with a court whose authority they dispute. Upon arrival, Duterte received medical checks as a routine precaution, although the ICC did not disclose details about his health. As he disembarked, security measures were in full swing, with an ambulance ready and police ensuring his secure transfer.
The Philippine Embassy offered consular support upon his arrival, equipping Duterte with necessities and care packages, according to a statement from the Philippine Foreign Ministry. Duterte will soon appear before the court, where his identity will be verified, and charges will be read to him. A hearing will later determine if there’s adequate evidence to proceed to trial, where he could face life imprisonment if found guilty.
Amnesty International and activists have termed this move as a long-awaited step towards justice. Family members of those who lost loved ones during the drug crackdowns believe this is a hopeful advancement. Still, they demand that more officials be held accountable. Meanwhile, supporters of Duterte protested his arrest, and there were divided demonstrations at the ICC prior to his arrival.
The ICC’s investigation launched in 2021 examines the mass killings during Duterte’s time as Davao City mayor and later as President. Differing reports estimate death tolls from 6,000 to 30,000. The court determined there are reasonable grounds for suspecting Duterte of crimes against humanity as an indirect co-perpetrator.
Though the Philippines is no longer an ICC member, the alleged offenses occurred before its withdrawal. Duterte could contest the ICC’s jurisdiction, which could prolong proceedings. He might seek provisional release pending trial, contingent on the court’s decision.
On his flight, Duterte issued a statement expressing a commitment to continuing his service to the Filipino people despite the ongoing legal processes. His lawyer in Manila indicated that the nation’s Supreme Court might intervene if there’s no legal basis for his arrest. President Marcos affirmed that the arrest was both appropriate and not politically motivated.
Sara Duterte, the Vice President and Duterte’s daughter, criticized the surrender of her father to the ICC. She has since traveled to The Hague to coordinate with his legal team and meet with him. Duterte’s withdrawal of the Philippines from the ICC in 2019 was seen by rights advocates as an attempt to avoid accountability. Despite attempts by his administration to halt the investigation, ICC judges ruled it could continue, confirming the jurisdiction over the alleged crimes and emphasizing the need for his arrest to protect ongoing investigations and involved parties.