A Controversial Move Sparking Debate on Sovereignty and Justice

Rodrigo Duterte's Arrest and Transfer to The Hague

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on Tuesday at Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport. He was then taken to a nearby presidential lounge at the Villamor Air Base to undergo booking procedures, including fingerprinting, before being flown to The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court (ICC).

However, Duterte, his family, lawyers, and friends resisted the arrest and prevented him from being brought to the plane. The standoff lasted for about 12 hours, during which Duterte refused to be fingerprinted and told the police, "You have to kill me to bring me to The Hague."

Duterte's lawyers claimed that Philippine authorities did not show any copy of the ICC warrant and violated his constitutional rights. They also criticized the Marcos Jr. administration for allowing the ICC to take custody of Duterte, despite the Philippines no longer being a party to the ICC.

Vice President Sara Duterte, the ex-president's daughter, condemned the arrest as a "blatant affront to our sovereignty" and an "insult to every Filipino." President Marcos Jr., however, denied these allegations in a televised address.

Duterte, before flying back to Manila from Hong Kong, acknowledged the ICC warrant and expressed his willingness to be arrested. He stated, "If this is my fate in life, it's OK, I'll accept it."

Duterte's arrest and transfer to The Hague mark a significant development in the ICC's investigation into his alleged crimes against humanity. His supporters view the arrest as an attack on Philippine sovereignty, while human rights groups celebrate it as a victory against impunity.