Rodrigo Duterte, former Philippine President, was arrested on March 11, 2025, at Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport following an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant for crimes against humanity.

The 79-year-old was detained upon returning from Hong Kong, where he had been campaigning for upcoming midterm elections. During his arrest, Duterte questioned the legitimacy, stating: "What crime have I committed? I did everything in my time for peace and a peaceful life for the Filipino people."

The ICC charges stem from Duterte's controversial war on drugs (2016-2022), during which over 6,000 drug suspects were killed in official police operations. Rights groups estimate the actual death toll in tens of thousands, with many victims being poor individuals killed without proper evidence or trial.

Despite the Philippines' withdrawal from the ICC in 2019, the court maintained jurisdiction over crimes committed before the withdrawal, including those during Duterte's time as Davao City mayor.

Key developments:

• President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. shifted from non-cooperation to supporting the ICC investigation
• Duterte faces possible extradition to The Hague for trial
• Human rights groups celebrate while supporters protest the arrest
• Upcoming March 20-21 hearings will determine if Duterte faces international prosecution

The arrest marks a historic moment in Philippine history, as Duterte could become the first Filipino leader to face trial at the International Criminal Court. His supporters argue the ICC lacks jurisdiction, while human rights advocates view it as a crucial step toward justice for drug war victims.

The case highlights the ongoing tension between national sovereignty and international justice, with significant implications for future human rights accountability in the Philippines and globally.

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