In a dramatic turn of events, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was detained by police upon his return to Manila early Tuesday morning. According to the Philippine Presidential Communications Office, Duterte's flight arrived at approximately 9:20 a.m. local time, and he was promptly presented with an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court to ensure his appearance before the court.
Throughout his tenure as mayor of Davao City and president, Duterte was both lauded and criticized for his controversial war on drugs. The campaign, which has left a lasting impact on political and social dynamics in the Philippines, is now under renewed scrutiny as international legal processes unfold.
Duterte, who is nearing 80, has questioned the charges leveled against him. In a family-released video, he poignantly asked, "What is the crime I committed?" His detention has stirred widespread debate, with former legal counsel Atty. Salvador Panelo denouncing the ICC warrant as lacking jurisdiction, calling it an "illegal arrest."
The political landscape in the Philippines appears to be bracing for further turbulence. With midterm elections on the horizon and Duterte registered as a candidate for mayor of Davao City, the current development adds a fresh layer of uncertainty. Statements from various political figures reflect the deep divisions and heated emotions this arrest has ignited, with concerns over potential chaos expressed by Senator Imee Marcos and warnings from key foreign officials.
Among the reactions, Vice President Sara Duterte condemned the move, describing it as "a blatant affront to our sovereignty and an insult to every Filipino who believes in our nation's independence." As the situation unfolds, international observers and local citizens alike remain keenly interested in the implications this case may have on both domestic policies and global perceptions of justice.
Reference(s):
What to know about former Philippine President Duterte's detention
cgtn.com
