In a video message shared on his Facebook account, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte expressed his full accountability for his administration’s “war on drugs” as he prepares to face legal challenges at the International Criminal Court. Duterte stated, “Whatever transpired in the past, I will stand in front for our law enforcement and the military. I have already mentioned that I will shield you, and I will take responsibility for all outcomes.” These remarks mark his first public statement since being transported to The Hague.
Duterte was apprehended by the ICC on murder charges related to his controversial anti-drug campaign, where numerous individuals classified as drug dealers and users were reported to have been killed. The video, garnering 10 million views, featured Duterte in a simple white shirt speaking, likely recorded aboard the plane with the faint sound of the engine in the background.
The ICC confirmed that Duterte had been “handed over to the custody of the International Criminal Court” following his arrest for murder charges in the Philippines. He will soon appear before an ICC judge in The Hague for an initial hearing and has been relocated to a detention facility on the Dutch coast.
Acknowledging the lengthy legal process ahead, Duterte affirmed his commitment to serve his country, stating, “I will continue to fulfill my duties. Let destiny take its course.” Assuring his supporters of his well-being, the 79-year-old former leader conveyed, “I am fine, do not fret.”
Duterte, who served as the Philippines’ president from 2016 to 2022, faces accusations of crimes against humanity for his alleged involvement in death squad operations during the anti-drug crackdown. If prosecuted, he could become the first Asian ex-head of state to stand trial at the ICC.
Under Duterte’s administration, approximately 6,200 suspects were reported to have died in anti-drug operations conducted by the police. Duterte’s daughter, Sara Duterte, the current vice president of the Philippines, also arrived in The Hague following her father’s arrest.
Legal experts and scholars view this arrest and transfer as a significant moment for the ICC, an institution lacking its own enforcement capabilities and facing sanctions from the United States. A State Department representative confirmed awareness of Duterte’s arrest by Philippine authorities.
