Sun Mar 09 17:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Duterte Defiant Amidst ICC Arrest Warrant Speculation

**HONG KONG/MANILA** – Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has declared his willingness to accept imprisonment should the International Criminal Court (ICC) issue an arrest warrant against him, as rumored. Speaking to supporters in Hong Kong on March 9th, Duterte reiterated his defense of his controversial drug war, claiming it was undertaken for the benefit of the Filipino people. While the government hasn’t confirmed the warrant, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Jay Ruiz stated that the administration is prepared for any outcome. The speculation comes amidst heightened tensions between the Duterte and Marcos families, with Vice President Sara Duterte, Duterte’s daughter, facing impeachment charges from allies of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Duterte’s drug war, which resulted in the deaths of over 6,000 people according to government figures (though human rights groups cite a much higher toll), remains a highly contentious issue.

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