Manila, 17 March 2025 – The Philippine Senate has begun an investigation into the arrest and extradition of former President Rodrigo Duterte. The inquiry is led by Senator Imee Marcos and aims to determine if legal procedures were followed. He was transferred to The Hague, where he now faces charges of crimes against humanity.
Duterte’s Arrest and ICC Case
He was arrested on March 11, 2025, under an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant. He was accused of orchestrating extrajudicial killings during his war on drugs campaign. Thousands of civilians were allegedly killed between 2016 and 2022.
His arrest remains controversial. The Philippines withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2019. Legal experts now debate whether ICC warrants still apply. However, the ICC has asserted jurisdiction over crimes committed before the withdrawal.
Investigation of Duterte Key Area
The Senate inquiry is expected to examine several key issues. Three main areas will be closely scrutinized:
- The legality of Duterte’s arrest – Whether Philippine law was followed by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
- Due process in extradition – Whether Duterte’s transfer complied with domestic and international laws.
- Government involvement – Whether President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration played a role in the extradition process.
“It is critical to ensure that all legal rights were protected,” Senator Marcos stated at the first hearing.
Public and Political Reactions
Duterte’s arrest has divided the nation. His supporters view the case as politically motivated. His critics see it as long-overdue justice.
Vice President Sara Duterte, his daughter, has strongly opposed the ICC’s involvement. She insists that he should only face charges in Philippine courts.
“Foreign courts should not dictate our legal processes. This is an issue of sovereignty,” she stated in a press release.
Meanwhile, human rights groups have praised the ICC’s action. Amnesty International called the arrest a major milestone in accountability.
Duterte Legal Team Planning to Challenge the Extradiction
The Senate findings could influence how the Supreme Court rules on ICC jurisdiction. Duterte’s legal team plans to challenge the extradition.
Legal analysts believe the trial could take years. Procedural delays and political interference are expected. If convicted, he could face a lengthy sentence. The world watches closely. The Philippines must now decide its stance on human rights and international justice.
For real-time updates on this case and other legal matters, follow ForwardMalaysia.my.
