MANILA – Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested and flown to The Hague as part of the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) investigation into alleged crimes against humanity committed during his controversial war on drugs. His daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, departed for the Netherlands on Wednesday, though her office did not disclose her purpose or the duration of her visit. Meanwhile, Duterte’s legal team is preparing to challenge his detention and clarify his legal standing.

Duterte, 79, who served as president from 2016 to 2022, could become the first former Asian head of state to stand trial at the ICC. His administration’s anti-drug campaign resulted in over 6,200 officially reported deaths, though human rights groups claim the actual toll is much higher, with many victims executed in extrajudicial killings.

Despite withdrawing the Philippines from the ICC in 2019, the court maintains jurisdiction over crimes committed while the country was still a member. His youngest daughter, Veronica Duterte, plans to file a habeas corpus petition with the Philippine Supreme Court in an effort to bring him back. Silvestre Bello, a former labor minister and member of Duterte’s legal team, said their first priority is to determine his exact location and secure access to him. “We need to ensure he receives proper legal assistance and explore all possible legal remedies,” Bello stated.

Human rights organizations have welcomed Duterte’s arrest, calling it a crucial step in holding world leaders accountable for human rights violations. Bryony Lau of Human Rights Watch described it as a "long-overdue victory against impunity" and a warning to other leaders who violate human rights that justice may eventually catch up with them.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters file.