Former President Rodrigo Duterte addressed reports that the International Criminal Court (ICC) may have issued an arrest warrant against him, insisting that his actions as leader were done to maintain peace and security in the Philippines.
“They’ve Been After Me for a Long Time”
Speaking at an event in Wan Chai, Hong Kong, Duterte dismissed the reports but acknowledged hearing about the possible warrant.
“Sa totoo lang, ang balita ko may warrant daw ako sa ICC or something. Matagal na akong hinahabol,” he said, using expletives to express frustration. (I heard that I supposedly have a warrant from the ICC. They’ve been after me for a long time.)
Despite the ongoing ICC investigation into alleged crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s drug war, Duterte remained firm in his stance.
“Ano man ang kasalanan ko, ginawa ko ‘yun para magkaroon ng konting katahimikan at mapayapa ang buhay ng Pilipino,” he said. (Whatever my sins may be, I did them to bring peace and security to the Filipino people.)
The ICC Investigation
The ICC has been looking into thousands of deaths that occurred under Duterte’s anti-drug campaign. Official police records state that around 6,000 suspects were killed in operations, but human rights groups estimate the death toll could be as high as 30,000.
Duterte, however, insists his actions were necessary.
“Assuming na totoo talaga yung sinasabi nila tungkol sa akin, ginawa ko ‘yun para sa inyo at sa inyong mga anak,” he added. (Even if the accusations against me are true, I did it for you, for your children.)
Fleeing the Country?
Duterte’s visit to Hong Kong, alongside his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, raised speculation that he might be avoiding arrest. However, his former legal counsel, Salvador Panelo, dismissed the allegations.
“Fake news. FPRRD and VP Sara are here to speak before a gathering of OFWs to express their thanks for their continued support,” Panelo clarified.
He also assured that the father and daughter would return to Manila “very soon.”
Is the Arrest Warrant Real?
There has been no official confirmation from the ICC regarding an arrest warrant. Attorney Kristina Conti of the National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers said they are still waiting for an official statement from ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan.
Meanwhile, Malacañang said it is prepared in case an ICC warrant is issued.
“If Interpol requests assistance from the government, we will provide it,” said Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro.
Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra also confirmed that the Philippine government has not received any communication from the ICC regarding the matter.
Duterte: “I Take Full Responsibility”
Duterte has previously stated that he will take “full legal responsibility” for the drug war but has no plans of apologizing for it.
Despite the ongoing ICC case, the Philippine government remains firm on its stance that the country is no longer part of the ICC since its withdrawal in 2019. However, officials noted that if Interpol reaches out for cooperation, they are ready to respond.
