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Duterte’s Arrest by ICC Sparks Political Turmoil in the Philippines

By Prof. Ruel F. Pepa

Asia-Pacific Research, March 13, 2025

Region: South-East Asia

Theme: Law and Justice

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The recent arrest of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, executed under a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and facilitated by the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol), has ignited significant political unrest in the Philippines.[1] Duterte, known for his hardline stance on drugs during his presidency from 2016 to 2022, faces charges of crimes against humanity related to his administration’s controversial anti-drug campaign.

The Arrest and Its Immediate Aftermath

On March 11, 2025, Duterte was apprehended at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport upon returning from Hong Kong. The arrest was carried out by Philippine authorities in coordination with Interpol, acting on the ICC’s warrant. Subsequently, Duterte was extradited to The Hague, The Netherlands, to face the charges levied against him.[2]

Public Reaction and the Rise of a ‘Martyr’ Narrative

The arrest has polarized public opinion in the Philippines. Duterte’s ardent supporters, collectively known as Duterte Diehard Supporters (DDS), have taken to the streets in mass rallies and demonstrations.[3] They accuse the current administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of complicity in Duterte’s arrest, alleging political persecution. The DDS, who have historically portrayed Duterte as a morally impeccable leader, now depict him as a victim of injustice, potentially elevating him to a martyr-like status.

Criticism of Duterte’s Supporters

Critics argue that the DDS have consistently overlooked the darker aspects of Duterte’s presidency, particularly the thousands of extrajudicial killings targeting alleged drug users and dealers under the government’s Oplan Tokhang initiative.[4] Human rights organizations have long condemned these actions, citing a blatant disregard for due process and the rule of law.

Religious Undertones in the Protests

In a twist of irony, many DDS members are now invoking religious sentiments in their protests, fervently praying for Duterte’s release. This is notable given Duterte’s previous controversial remarks about religious institutions during his tenure.

Implications for the Marcos Administration

The unrest poses a significant challenge for President Marcos Jr.’s administration. Balancing the enforcement of international law with maintaining domestic stability is proving to be a delicate task. The administration faces criticism from both domestic and international observers, with some accusing it of undermining national sovereignty by cooperating with the ICC, while others commend its commitment to accountability and justice.

Looking Ahead

As Duterte awaits trial in The Hague, the Philippines stands at a crossroads. The situation underscores the deep divisions within Filipino society and raises questions about the country’s commitment to human rights and the rule of law. The outcome of this legal and political saga will undoubtedly have lasting implications for the nation’s future trajectory.

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Prof. Ruel F. Pepa is a Filipino philosopher based in Madrid, Spain. A retired academic (Associate Professor IV), he taught Philosophy and Social Sciences for more than fifteen years at Trinity University of Asia, an Anglican university in the Philippines. He is a regular contributor to Global Research.

Notes

[1] Philippines sends ex-President Duterte to ICC over ‘drugs war’ killings | Reuters

[2] Philippine’s ex-President Rodrigo Duterte arrested on ICC warrant | AP News

[3] Police fear protests as Rodrigo Duterte flown to Hague over drug killings

[4] Arrest of Former Philippines President Duterte Tests Divisive Legacy of War on Drugs – WSJ

Featured image: President Rodrigo Duterte presents a chart illustrating a drug trade network of high level drug syndicates in the Philippines during a press conference, July 7, 2016 (Public Domain)