Vancouver, Canada, 2025 March 10 — Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on March 11, 2025, Manila Time, at the request of the International Criminal Court (ICC), marking a significant development in the investigation into his controversial “war on drugs.” The ICC is probing Duterte’s role in thousands of killings during his presidency from 2016 to 2022, which targeted drug dealers and users. While in custody, Duterte insisted that any prosecution should occur in Philippine courts, asserting that he had acted within his authority, only directing police to kill in self-defence. His arrest stems from an ICC investigation into crimes against humanity, including the alleged murder of 43 individuals during his tenure as mayor of Davao City prior to his presidency.
Duterte had previously withdrawn the Philippines from the ICC in 2019, opposing the investigation. However, his arrest comes after a shift in policy under his successor, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who indicated the Philippines would comply with the ICC’s actions. Human rights advocates view the arrest as an important step toward accountability for the killings, with estimates suggesting as many as 30,000 people may have died under Duterte’s drug crackdown. Critics, including Duterte’s allies, argue that the arrest violates Philippine sovereignty and that local courts are capable of delivering justice.
Despite his arrest, Duterte’s supporters defend him, claiming the ICC has no jurisdiction over the case. The Philippines’ Supreme Court is set to address a petition filed by Duterte’s lawyer seeking to halt the cooperation with the ICC. (MBB)
Precis Source: Lema, K. (2025, March 11). Philippines’ ex-President Rodrigo Duterte arrested at ICC’s request over ‘drugs war’ killings. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/philippines-edge-prospect-arrest-ex-president-duterte-over-drug-war-2025-03-11
Photo: Favila, A. (2025, March 11). Supporters rally outside Villamor Air Base after former president Rodrigo Duterte was arrested, Tuesday, March 11, 2025, near Manila, Philippines. Associated Press. https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/article/former-president-rodrigo-duterte-arrested-in-the-philippines-on-an-icc-warrant-over-drug-killings/
