In a dramatic twist that sounds straight out of a Netflix thriller, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was detained by police in Manila this morning. His flight landed at around 9:20 a.m. local time, where authorities presented him with an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) to ensure his appearance before the court. 😮
This development brings a mix of shock and curiosity among fans of political drama and serious policy watchers alike. During his years as mayor of Davao City and as president, Duterte was known for his controversial war on drugs—a policy that drew widespread attention both at home and abroad. In 2018, the ICC initiated a preliminary investigation into whether his anti-drug operations violated human rights, and by September 2021, the formal investigation was underway.
The Philippine Presidential Communications Office confirmed that Duterte is presently in police custody. His detention has ignited a flurry of reactions: former legal adviser Salvador Panelo labeled the arrest warrant as coming from a dubious source, while local political elites are bracing for further political turbulence ahead of the May midterm elections.
Adding to the intrigue, Duterte—who is set to turn 80 this month—has openly questioned his detention, asking, "What is the crime I committed?" His family has also shared his concerns, which has only deepened the debate over the legal and political ramifications of his arrest.
With strong feelings on all sides, including warnings from Senator Imee Marcos about possible chaos, the situation remains a hot topic in Philippine political circles and social media alike. As this story unfolds, both news enthusiasts and young professionals are watching closely, eager to understand how this could reshape the political landscape in the Philippines.
Reference(s):
What to know about former Philippine President Duterte's detention
cgtn.com
