On Monday, March 17, the Philippine Senate announced that it would conduct a formal investigation into the arrest and swift handover of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court (ICC). Duterte, aged 79, is the first Asian former head of state to face charges at the ICC, accused of crimes against humanity, including murder, stemming from his controversial anti-drug campaign.
The probe, initiated by Senator Imee Marcos, aims to determine whether due process was followed during Duterte’s arrest and extradition. Marcos emphasized the importance of upholding the nation’s sovereignty and protecting Duterte’s legal rights. The arrest has sparked significant political and public debate, with supporters and critics of Duterte voicing their opinions.
Duterte was apprehended at Manila airport on March 11 after returning from Hong Kong and was promptly transferred to the Netherlands to face trial at The Hague. The Senate’s investigation is set to include testimonies from top police and government officials, with a public hearing scheduled for Thursday, March 20.
This development has intensified political tensions in the Philippines, particularly between the Marcos and Duterte families, whose alliance has fractured recently. The outcome of the Senate’s probe could have far-reaching implications for domestic politics and the country’s stance on international justice.
