Former President Duterte Arrested at Manila Airport, Sparks Political Turmoil in the Philippines

Manila – Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport while attempting to leave the country on a private flight. His arrest is linked to multiple cases of human rights violations, corruption, and abuse of power. The event has sent shockwaves through Philippine politics, with both supporters and critics reacting strongly.

Arrest at the Airport

Duterte was reportedly preparing for departure when security forces intercepted him, citing an international travel ban. He was immediately detained and taken to an interrogation center for questioning on serious allegations. Authorities have stated that the arrest follows international and domestic investigations into his controversial tenure.

ICC Investigation and Duterte’s Response

Amid growing speculation, Duterte had previously expressed willingness to accept arrest. Speaking at a rally in Hong Kong, he said he was ready to face possible legal consequences as reports suggested that the International Criminal Court (ICC) was preparing an arrest warrant against him over his notorious “war on drugs.”

Duterte’s anti-narcotics campaign, launched in 2016, was central to his presidency. The aggressive crackdown resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings, drawing global condemnation. In response to the ICC’s scrutiny, Duterte had withdrawn the Philippines from the court’s founding treaty in 2019. However, recent developments suggest that the current Philippine government may cooperate with the investigation in certain areas.

Government’s Stance on the Arrest

The office of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has stated that no formal communication from Interpol has been received regarding Duterte’s arrest but has indicated that due legal procedures will be followed. The government has clarified that Duterte must face the legal process, and if the charges against him are proven, he could face a long prison sentence.

Key Allegations Against Duterte

Duterte faces a series of grave allegations, including:

• Human rights violations: Extrajudicial killings of thousands of drug suspects without trial during his presidency.
• Corruption and abuse of power: Allegations of misusing government funds and resources.
• ICC probe: An investigation by The Hague-based ICC into his involvement in crimes against humanity.

Public Outrage and Support

Following his arrest, Duterte’s supporters took to the streets in Manila and Davao City, calling the move a political vendetta. They claim the current administration is using the legal system to target him.

At the Hong Kong rally, Duterte defended his actions, stating, “If the arrest warrant is real, why did I do it? For myself? No. For my family? No. I did it for the nation and for peace.” Addressing the cheering crowd alongside his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, he further declared, “If this is my fate, I accept it. They can arrest me, imprison me. I have no regrets.”

Hong Kong Authorities’ Reaction

Hong Kong police deployed elite security units near Duterte’s hotel, although the city’s authorities emphasized that his visit was a private holiday and the rally had received prior approval. The Philippine presidential office dismissed speculation that Duterte was trying to escape legal proceedings by traveling to Hong Kong. It also urged his supporters to respect the judicial process.

What’s Next?

With Duterte now in custody, the legal battle ahead will be closely watched. The outcome could significantly impact the political landscape of the Philippines, influencing both domestic and international relations. Whether Duterte’s party and loyalists will continue to resist or accept the legal course remains uncertain.

Meanwhile, the ICC’s investigation is expected to gain momentum, possibly leading to further legal actions. Duterte’s dramatic arrest marks a significant turning point in the country’s political history, with repercussions that will unfold in the coming months.