Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has become the first former Asian head of state to be detained by the International Criminal Court (ICC). His arrest follows an ICC-issued warrant charging him with crimes against humanity, specifically murder, in connection with the deadly anti-drug campaign carried out during his administration.
Duterte’s arrest is a major development in the ICC’s ongoing investigation into alleged human rights violations during the Philippine drug war. The probe, which began in 2021, focuses on thousands of extrajudicial killings of suspected drug offenders. According to ICC findings, Duterte, both as Davao City mayor and later as president, was allegedly involved in orchestrating a systematic and widespread crackdown on civilians.
The ICC has also identified 31 other suspects linked to similar cases who remain at large. This latest development underscores the court’s commitment to ensuring accountability for alleged international crimes.
A formal hearing will be scheduled for Duterte’s initial appearance before the ICC, where he will be informed of the charges against him and his rights under the Rome Statute. The case is expected to be a landmark in international justice, with potential implications for other leaders facing similar accusations.
