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MANILA, Philippines — Arrangements are being finalized for former president Rodrigo Duterte to be transported to the International Criminal Court (ICC) headquarters in The Hague, The Netherlands, following his arrest on Tuesday.
According to a highly placed source, a chartered aircraft with tail number RPC5129 has been placed on standby to fly Duterte to the ICC. The private plane will be piloted by Captains Johnny Gulla and Elmo Segovia, the source added.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is currently working on securing the necessary flight permits to facilitate Duterte’s immediate departure from the country.
Duterte’s arrest comes after the ICC issued a warrant over allegations of crimes against humanity in connection with his administration’s controversial war on drugs. The former president, who served from 2016 to 2022, oversaw a bloody anti-drug campaign that led to thousands of deaths, many of which were alleged to be extrajudicial killings.
In 2018, Duterte withdrew the Philippines from the ICC after the tribunal launched a preliminary investigation into his drug war policies. However, the ICC ruled that it retained jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was still a member.
The Philippine government has been divided on whether to cooperate with the ICC. While Duterte and his allies have repeatedly dismissed the tribunal’s authority, recent developments indicate a shift in the state’s position, allowing his arrest and extradition to move forward.
Security has been heightened around Duterte’s known residences and key government facilities. The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) have reportedly coordinated efforts to ensure a smooth transfer.
Supporters of Duterte have gathered outside his Davao City home, protesting what they claim is a politically motivated prosecution.
