Former President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, faced a dramatic arrest at Manila airport today after being issued a warrant by the International Criminal Court in the Hague. The arrest comes after a 13-year investigation into Duterte’s role in the deaths of thousands of people during his controversial “war on drugs”.
Duterte, 79, had been in Hong Kong before his arrest, where he had predicted that he would be taken into custody. In a video captured during his arrest, Duterte can be heard questioning the officers about the charges against him and expressing his disbelief at being detained. He was heard saying, “What is the law and what is the crime that I committed? I was brought here not of my own volition, it is somebody else’s. You have to answer now for the deprivation of liberty.”
This arrest marks a significant moment in the history of the Philippines, as Duterte had openly boasted of killing drug suspects and urged his police force to do the same during his time as mayor and president. The news of his arrest has sparked a mix of reactions from the public, some celebrating the possible end of his controversial reign, while others continue to support him despite the allegations against him.
As Duterte boarded the jet in Manila, questions remain about what the future holds for the former president and the impact his arrest will have on the political landscape of the Philippines. The international community will be closely watching as this high-profile case unfolds.
Watch the video by The Times and The Sunday Times
Video “LIVE: President Duterte seen boarding jet in Manila after arrest” was uploaded on 03/11/2025 to Youtube Channel The Times and The Sunday Times