WORLD
Advocates Philippines
Rodrigo Duterte Arrested: ICC Moves Forward With War On Drugs Case
ICC Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan KC. Photo courtesy of ICC
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has been transferred to the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor confirmed the arrest on March 11, 2025, marking a major step in its investigation into alleged crimes against humanity linked to Duterte’s controversial war on drugs.
What’s the Case About?
Duterte stands accused of murder as a crime against humanity under Article 7(1)(a) of the Rome Statute. The charges stem from his time as mayor of Davao City, where he allegedly led the infamous Davao Death Squad, and later, as President, where his war on drugs campaign resulted in thousands of deaths.
A warrant for his arrest was issued on March 7, 2025, after the ICC found reasonable grounds to believe he played a key role in orchestrating widespread and systematic attacks against civilians between November 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019. The ICC maintains jurisdiction over the case since the alleged crimes occurred while the Philippines was still a State Party to the Rome Statute.
A Milestone for Justice?
The ICC emphasized that Duterte’s arrest is a crucial step in holding those responsible for serious crimes accountable. The Office of the Prosecutor credited its Philippines Unified Team, under the leadership of Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang, for coordinating efforts leading to the arrest. They also expressed gratitude to the survivors, witnesses, and activists who provided crucial testimonies.
With Duterte now in ICC custody, preparations for his initial court appearance and subsequent proceedings are underway. The case remains open, with the ICC continuing to gather evidence and urging those with relevant information to come forward.
What Happens Next?
The big question now is: how will the Philippine government react? While his arrest signals international pressure for justice, Duterte’s allies and supporters may push back. Meanwhile, human rights groups see this as long-overdue accountability for the thousands of victims of the drug war.
This case is far from over, but one thing is clear—the world is
watching.
What’s the Case About?
Duterte stands accused of murder as a crime against humanity under Article 7(1)(a) of the Rome Statute. The charges stem from his time as mayor of Davao City, where he allegedly led the infamous Davao Death Squad, and later, as President, where his war on drugs campaign resulted in thousands of deaths.
A warrant for his arrest was issued on March 7, 2025, after the ICC found reasonable grounds to believe he played a key role in orchestrating widespread and systematic attacks against civilians between November 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019. The ICC maintains jurisdiction over the case since the alleged crimes occurred while the Philippines was still a State Party to the Rome Statute.
A Milestone for Justice?
The ICC emphasized that Duterte’s arrest is a crucial step in holding those responsible for serious crimes accountable. The Office of the Prosecutor credited its Philippines Unified Team, under the leadership of Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang, for coordinating efforts leading to the arrest. They also expressed gratitude to the survivors, witnesses, and activists who provided crucial testimonies.
With Duterte now in ICC custody, preparations for his initial court appearance and subsequent proceedings are underway. The case remains open, with the ICC continuing to gather evidence and urging those with relevant information to come forward.
What Happens Next?
The big question now is: how will the Philippine government react? While his arrest signals international pressure for justice, Duterte’s allies and supporters may push back. Meanwhile, human rights groups see this as long-overdue accountability for the thousands of victims of the drug war.
This case is far from over, but one thing is clear—the world is
watching.
Mar 13, 2025
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