As former President Rodrigo Duterte faces trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity during his controversial war on drugs, the events surrounding his legal battle reveal a divided Philippine populace and complex political dynamics.
Duterte was arrested on March 11, 2025, at Manila airport after returning from a brief trip to Hong Kong. He was swiftly extradited to the ICC, setting the stage for a landmark case, as he becomes the first Asian former head of state charged by the ICC. The ICC accuses him of murder and other crimes against humanity attributed to a brutal campaign against drug users and dealers during his presidency, which rights groups claim led to the extrusion of thousands.
The response to Duterte's arrest has been notably polarized. Many in Quezon City, where a service was held at the Ina ng Lupang Pangako Parish, celebrated the ICC's actions, viewing them as a step toward justice. Jack Alvarez, a pastor, remarked, “Many were happy that they were finally getting justice.” Attendees, mourning loved ones lost to the drug war, gathered to remember victims and seek closure.
On the other hand, Duterte’s supporters took to the streets of Davao City and Mindanao, showcasing their loyalty with placards stating, “We Stand with Duterte” and “We Love You, Tatay.” Maria Palacio, a pastor from Mindanao who praised Duterte for making her feel safe, expressed hope for his repeated success in future elections.
At the legal front, Duterte’s defense team boasts a history of overturning high-profile cases, and its strategies may hinge on key arguments. Chief among them is the assertion that the ICC lacks jurisdiction, as the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019. Lawyer Nicholas Kaufman, who leads the team and has significant experience in international law, has risen to prominence in defending Duterte. Kaufman previously represented other notable clients at the ICC and has stated, “I look forward to denouncing the State-sponsored abduction of the former President to a case in The Hague devoid of jurisdiction.”
Duterte’s legal defense will also emphasize state sovereignty, arguing that his policies were lawful under Philippine law and that international intervention is unwarranted. Furthermore, they will address the lack of concrete evidence directly linking Duterte to extrajudicial killings, suggesting that his often harsh rhetoric was not intended to incite violence.
In the political landscape, the Philippine Senate is conducting a formal probe into the events surrounding Duterte’s arrest. Senator Imee Marcos, sister of current President Bongbong Marcos, stated, “As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, I am calling for an urgent investigation into the arrest of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte… Our sovereignty and legal processes must remain paramount.” This statement reveals the ongoing political fallout between the Marcos and Duterte families as Marcos distanced himself from Duterte’s controversial policies.
Public sentiments remain complex, influenced by misinformation and political rivalries. Alvarez recalled a time during Duterte’s administration when law enforcement reportedly shot dead between three and four Payatas residents a day. This dark period saw many Filipinos caught in the crossfire, leading to cries for justice and accountability.
The implications of Duterte’s trial reach beyond his individual case; they highlight significant moral and theological dilemmas. Gabby Go Balauag expressed concerns about the sanctity of life amid the bloody drug war, stating, “I can’t align my faith with Duterte’s rhetoric of murder, violence, and abuse.” These voices encompass a growing dissatisfaction among citizens grappling with the legacies of Duterte’s reign.
As the case unfolds, it draws attention not only to Duterte’s legacy and the ramifications for international law but also to the Philippines' complex socio-political environment. The nation awaits further developments with a public hearing set for March 20, where government officials will give evidence. With a hearing scheduled for September 23, 2025, this saga is far from over, and its consequences could reshape the future of governance in the Philippines.
The political ramifications of the ICC case will likely influence upcoming elections, with many politicians mindful of their stance on Duterte’s policies. As for Duterte, the question of his legal fate looms large amidst a backdrop of both support and opposition, reflecting the deep divisions running through Philippine society today.
