Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested by the Philippine National Police (PNP) upon his arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on March 11, 2025.

The arrest follows the issuance of a warrant by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s controversial war on drugs.

Duterte, who was returning from Hong Kong, was taken into custody without resistance and has been transported to Camp Crame in Quezon City for further processing. 

The charges against him stem from alleged human rights violations committed during his administration’s anti-drug campaign which has drawn global criticism for reported extrajudicial killings and other human rights abuses.

According to the statement released by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the ICC Prosecutor General sent a formal notification to Philippine authorities regarding Duterte’s legal 

status. 

The government has assured the public that due process will be observed in accordance with both domestic and international legal obligations.

Duterte’s legal team is expected to challenge the ICC’s jurisdiction, arguing that the Philippines’ withdrawal from the court in 2019 exempts him from its authority. 

However, the ICC maintains that it has the right to prosecute cases from the period when the country was still a member.

Political analysts believe that Duterte’s arrest marks a significant moment in the country’s legal and political landscape. 

Human rights organizations have welcomed the development, viewing it as a step toward accountability while his supporters see it as a politically motivated move.

As this case continues to develop, both the international community and local stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation for further legal and diplomatic implications..

Sources: (1), (2), (3)

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