Duterte Arrested for ICC Crimes Against Humanity Charges

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested at Manila's international airport on Tuesday upon his return from Hong Kong, following an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant for crimes against humanity linked to his controversial anti-drug campaign. The ICC has accused Duterte of overseeing extrajudicial killings that resulted in thousands of deaths during his presidency from 2016 to 2022, with human rights groups estimating the toll may be significantly higher than official figures. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that the arrest was proper and legally justified, despite criticisms from Duterte's family and supporters who viewed it as a political act. Following the arrest, Duterte was flown to The Hague to face charges, marking a significant moment as he becomes the first former leader in Asia to be detained by the ICC. Duterte's administration had previously attempted to block the ICC's investigation, arguing that the court lacked jurisdiction after the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019. Despite the legal challenges, the ICC continues to assert its authority over cases predating the withdrawal, specifically related to Duterte's actions in Davao City prior to his presidency.