Tue Mar 11 14:33:10 UTC 2025: ## Former Philippine President Duterte Arrested and Transferred to ICC for Crimes Against Humanity

**Manila, Philippines** – Rodrigo Duterte, the former president of the Philippines, was arrested in Manila on Tuesday and immediately flown to The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC warrant alleges Duterte bears criminal responsibility for the deaths of at least 43 individuals between 2011 and 2019, stemming from his “war on drugs” campaign both as mayor of Davao City and later as president. The ICC estimates the death toll from this campaign to be approximately 30,000.

Duterte, known for his hardline stance and high approval ratings throughout his presidency, vehemently denied the charges and requested a trial within the Philippines. However, the ICC retains jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was a member state, even after its withdrawal in 2019.

The ICC investigation, initially suspended, was reactivated in 2023 due to dissatisfaction with the Philippine government’s handling of the situation. The current president, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., initially resisted cooperation but ultimately complied with the arrest warrant, a decision attributed by analysts to strained relations with Duterte’s daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte.

The arrest follows years of allegations of extrajudicial killings, with human rights groups accusing Duterte of overseeing a “death squad” during his time as mayor of Davao. His presidency saw a dramatic escalation of violence, with thousands of suspected drug users and dealers killed, many without due process. Numerous accounts from victims’ families and survivors detail police brutality, executions, and the lack of accountability for those involved. These accounts included the killing of children caught in the crossfire.

The arrest has been met with mixed reactions. While some victims’ families expressed relief and hope for justice, others highlighted the perceived disparity between Duterte’s arrest and the swift executions of their loved ones. President Marcos Jr. confirmed the transfer to The Hague, emphasizing the government’s adherence to Interpol obligations. The trial in The Hague marks a significant development in the long-running investigation into the controversial “war on drugs” and its devastating consequences.

Read More