In Manila, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte found himself at the center of a dramatic confrontation following his unexpected arrest, which was orchestrated under the orders of the International Criminal Court. The arrest led to a tension-filled standoff lasting 12 hours as authorities attempted to transport him to The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity. Despite resistance, Police Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre confirmed that Duterte was eventually flown to the Netherlands.
Duterte, once known for his rigorous and controversial anti-crime campaigns, has often been a polarizing figure with his outspoken criticism of global leaders and institutions. While in power, he gained notoriety for his brash remarks about influential figures such as Pope Francis and former U.S. President Barack Obama. His arrest represents a significant setback, celebrated by human rights organizations as a victory over governmental impunity.
The arrest took place at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport, where Duterte arrived with his family and friends from Hong Kong. Under heavy police escort, he was taken to Villamor Air Base to complete the formal arrest procedures, including fingerprinting. However, Duterte, supported by his family and legal team, resisted the process, leading to a standoff that lasted half a day. The situation became heated, with altercations that left one officer with a head injury inflicted by Duterte’s common-law wife.
Torre described the tense atmosphere, stating, “One of my officers received a serious injury, but I remained composed despite the volatile environment.” Despite requests for compliance, Duterte refused to undergo the arrest booking process, reportedly challenging the police by saying, “You have to kill me to bring me to The Hague.” Despite this resistance, authorities managed to secure him onto a government aircraft bound for the ICC.
Duterte’s legal representatives have raised concerns regarding the procedural aspects of his arrest, claiming Philippine officials failed to produce necessary documentation like the ICC warrant and violated Duterte’s legal rights. Vice President Sara Duterte, expressing her disapproval, criticized the current administration for what she viewed as yielding a former president to international jurisdiction while disregarding national sovereignty.
The current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. contested these claims, addressing the nation following Duterte’s departure. He disputed the Vice President’s allegations, further highlighting the political discord between their once allied parties.
Speaking to his followers in Hong Kong prior to his arrest, Duterte acknowledged the ICC’s warrant against him, stating he was prepared to face imprisonment. He maintained a defiant demeanor, declaring his acceptance of whatever consequences may come. Known for his tough stance on crime and drugs, Duterte often commented harshly on international critics of his policies, once famously telling Obama to “go to hell.”
Duterte’s tumultuous relationship with the Catholic Church was also evident in 2015 when he accused Pope Francis of exacerbating traffic issues during a papal visit, an outburst that drew widespread condemnation. Though he later issued an apology, his comments have contributed to a legacy of controversy and conflict.
