Photo credit: Alan Peter Cayetano

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano has spoken out against the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, calling it unconstitutional and a violation of due process. He emphasized that legal remedies must be afforded to everyone, regardless of political affiliation.

"Justice Must Be Served—But the Right Way"

Cayetano expressed concern over the way Duterte’s case was handled, saying he carefully observed how the situation unfolded. “I was soberly, patiently, and quietly listening,” he said.

He noted that some groups, including human rights activists and former Duterte critics, seemed to celebrate the arrest. While he acknowledged their right to speak out, he raised an important point:

"Isn’t due process also a human right?"

He reminded the public that courts exist precisely because disagreements need to be settled through legal means—not rushed actions.

"Was This Handled Fairly?"

One of Cayetano’s strongest concerns was the lack of verification by a Philippine court before Duterte was reportedly ordered to be taken to The Hague.

“He had a pending petition with the Supreme Court, yet they were already preparing to put him on a plane?”

He drew comparisons to past extradition cases, where legal processes were followed diligently before any action was taken.

"Pray for the Country, But Stand Up for What’s Right"

Cayetano made a heartfelt appeal, urging Filipinos to pray for the country, the PNP, and the courts. However, he also warned that staying silent in the face of injustice is not an option.

“Just because we want peace doesn’t mean we should ignore injustice.”

As someone who has worked with human rights advocates in the past, he challenged them to stay consistent:

“When I was at the DFA, I fought for your right to speak, even if we didn’t always agree. That’s what due process is about.”

"What’s Right Is Right—No Matter Who You Support"

The senator concluded by reminding everyone that justice should never be selective.

“What’s right is right. That’s what my father taught me. That’s what’s in the Bible.”

He acknowledged the difficulties of supporting an administration you don’t always agree with but said that at the very least, “our political opponents deserve to have their rights respected.”

Cayetano’s final words? “Sometimes, we just have to stand up for what is right.”