MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. addressed media inquiries on Monday regarding the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, describing it as a legal obligation rather than a political action.
The arrest was made following an Interpol notice that aligned with an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant, which accuses Duterte of involvement in crimes against humanity related to his anti-drug campaign.
The arrest stems from allegations that Duterte’s anti-drug operations, conducted during his presidency from 2016 to 2022, led to numerous extrajudicial killings. Human rights organizations have repeatedly criticized the campaign for violating human rights and for the loss of life without due legal process.
Marcos emphasized that the arrest was a matter of complying with international protocols.
“Interpol requested our cooperation, and the Philippine government complied, as is our obligation,” Marcos said during a press briefing.
Duterte’s allies have condemned the arrest, arguing that it violates national sovereignty and challenging the ICC’s jurisdiction over the Philippines.
Duterte himself has long opposed the ICC, particularly after the Philippines withdrew from the court in 2019.
His legal team is reportedly exploring options to contest the arrest, questioning the ICC’s authority following the country’s withdrawal.
Marcos, however, reaffirmed that the government’s actions were in line with international expectations.
“This is about fulfilling our international commitments, not about political vendettas,” he stated.
The president also reiterated that the Philippines, as part of the international community, has an obligation to honor such agreements.