Manila: Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has acknowledged full responsibility for his administration’s controversial war on drugs as he faces legal proceedings at the International Criminal Court (ICC). In a video message posted on his Facebook account, Duterte reiterated his commitment to shielding law enforcement officers and military personnel who carried out his policies.
“Whatever happened in the past, I will be the front of our law enforcement and the military. I said this already, that I will protect you, and I will be responsible for everything,” Duterte stated. His remarks, the first since his departure from Manila, were made while aboard a plane to The Hague.
Duterte was taken into ICC custody on Wednesday following his arrest in Manila on murder charges linked to his drug crackdown, which resulted in thousands of deaths among suspected drug dealers and users.
The video, which has amassed over 10 million views, featured Duterte alone, dressed in a plain white shirt. The background noise suggested it was recorded inside the aircraft, with the low hum of an engine faintly audible.
In an official statement, the ICC confirmed Duterte’s detention:
“He was surrendered to the custody of the International Criminal Court. He was arrested by the authorities of the Republic of the Philippines… for charges of murder as a crime against humanity.”
The 79-year-old former leader is set to appear before an ICC judge in The Hague in the coming days for his initial hearing. Following his arrival in the Netherlands, he was transferred to a detention facility on the Dutch coast.
Anticipating an extended legal battle, Duterte assured his supporters that he remains steadfast in his stance.
“This will be a long legal proceeding, but I say to you, I will continue to serve my country. And so be it, if that is my destiny,” he said.
“I am okay, do not worry,” he added in the more than two-minute-long video clip.
Duterte, who led the Philippines from 2016 to 2022, is facing allegations of crimes against humanity over his role in overseeing extrajudicial killings by state-backed death squads as part of his anti-narcotics campaign. If prosecuted, he could become the first former Asian head of state to stand trial at the ICC.
The arrest warrant against Duterte alleges that, as president, he not only sanctioned but also financially supported and armed the groups responsible for executing individuals accused of drug-related crimes.
Also Read | US-Ireland Relations in Focus as Trump, Martin Meet in Washington
During his six-year tenure, official police data recorded 6,200 deaths in anti-drug operations. However, human rights organizations estimate the true toll to be significantly higher, with thousands more killed by vigilantes believed to have acted with state approval.
Duterte’s daughter, Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte, arrived in The Hague on Wednesday evening, according to a statement from her office.
Also Read | No Plans to Privatise BSNL, MTNL, Confirms Indian Government
Legal experts and international observers view Duterte’s arrest and transfer as a landmark moment for the ICC, which has faced criticism for its limited enforcement capabilities. The court, lacking its own police force, often relies on national authorities to execute arrests.
Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department confirmed awareness of the situation, with a spokesperson stating that Washington is closely monitoring developments following Duterte’s apprehension by Philippine authorities.
