Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested at Manila’s airport on ICC orders, the government confirmed. Duterte, returning from Hong Kong, faces crimes against humanity charges linked to his anti-drug campaign’s alleged mass killings.
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on March 11, 2025, at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport upon his return from Hong Kong. The arrest was executed based on a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity linked to his aggressive anti-drug campaign during his presidency from 2016 to 2022.
THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
Background on the ICC Warrant:
The ICC’s warrant pertains to Duterte’s controversial “war on drugs,” which reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths, many of which were alleged extrajudicial killings. Human rights organizations have long criticized these operations, asserting that they disproportionately targeted impoverished communities and bypassed due legal processes.
THE GUARDIAN
Political Implications:
Duterte’s arrest has significant political ramifications:
Domestic Politics: The detention is expected to heighten tensions between his successor, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and Duterte’s daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte. The current administration, which initially resisted cooperating with the ICC, has expressed willingness to comply with international police actions against Duterte.
THE GUARDIAN
International Relations: The arrest may impact the Philippines’ relationship with key allies, including the United States, especially amid rising regional tensions.
