Philippines’ ex-president rejects arrest warrant in drug war investigation

Philippines’ ex-President Rodrigo Duterte’s stance on the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation into his controversial war on drugs has taken a dramatic turn.

After previously challenging the ICC to investigate him in the Philippines, Duterte’s position shifted upon his return from a weekend trip to Hong Kong, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media. 

Addressing officials at the airport, he ominously stated, "You will just have to kill me." Duterte arrived back in the Philippines on March 11, and was met by police at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), he was served with an arrest warrant from the ICC by the Prosecutor General. This marks a significant development in the ICC’s ongoing investigation into Duterte’s anti-drug campaign and its associated extrajudicial killings, which human rights groups estimate could number between 12,000 and 30,000. 

Official records indicate over 6,000 deaths linked to the drug war. In a video shared with the media, Duterte refused to submit to arrest, particularly by officials linked to Western powers. "Hindi ako papayag kung kakampi ka riyan sa mga puti (I will not allow it if you're siding with those Westerners)," he declared. 

PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Chief Nicholas Torre III confirmed that a representative from the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) was present when the warrant was served. PCO also verified that Interpol Manila received the official copy of the arrest warrant from the ICC. 

Despite urging the ICC to "hurry up" in a 2024 House inquiry, Duterte’s current refusal to accept the arrest warrant contrasts sharply with his previous statements. During a campaign rally, he had said, "If this is truly my fate, it’s okay, I will accept it. They can arrest me, imprison me," adding that his actions were for the country's peace. 

However, Duterte has previously stated that he alone should be held responsible for the "success and shortcomings" of his drug war, taking legal accountability for everything done by police under his orders. 

The ongoing investigation has provided a platform for families of extrajudicial killing victims, with many recounting how drug suspects were allegedly killed for resisting arrest. Duterte’s refusal to accept responsibility for the killings contradicts earlier testimonies, with police officials saying rewards were given for each drug suspect killed. 

Duterte has denied this, acknowledging only that additional funds were allocated for anti-drug operations. The ICC’s arrest warrant makes Duterte the first former Philippine president to face arrest by the international tribunal, following a report that recommended charges be filed against him for crimes against humanity.

By Naila Huseynova