 "Take responsibility for war on drugs': Philippines leader Duterte posts Facebook video ahead of ICC appearance")
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said he takes full responsibility for his administration’s “war on drugs”, as he prepares to face murder charges at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Duterte was taken into custody by the ICC on Wednesday (March 12) following his arrest in Manila on charges related to the thousands of killings that took place during his anti-drug crackdown.
Philippine authorities handed him over to the ICC, which confirmed he had been “surrendered to the custody of the International Criminal Court” and transferred to a detention facility on the Dutch coast.
Duterte speaks out
In a video message posted on his Facebook account, Duterte, 79, said he stands by the actions of law enforcement and the military during his six-year presidency.
“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 said.
The video, which has been viewed 10 million times, showed Duterte wearing a plain white shirt and speaking inside an airplane. The faint hum of the engine could be heard in the background.
“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,” Duterte said. He also reassured his supporters that he was in good condition.
“I am okay, do not worry,” he said in the more than two-minute clip.
First Asian former head of state to face ICC trial
Duterte, who served as president from 2016 to 2022, faces allegations of crimes against humanity for orchestrating death squads during his administration’s anti-drug campaign. He could become the first former Asian head of state to stand trial at the ICC.
The ICC’s arrest warrant alleges that Duterte created, funded, and armed the groups responsible for executing suspected drug users and dealers. Philippine police records show 6,200 suspects were killed in anti-drug operations during his presidency.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsDuterte’s daughter, Sara Duterte, who serves as the Philippines’ vice president, arrived in The Hague on Wednesday evening, her office said.
Global reaction
Duterte is expected to appear before an ICC judge in The Hague in the coming days for an initial hearing. His arrest and transfer mark a significant moment for the International Criminal Court, which has faced challenges enforcing its warrants due to the lack of its own police force.
The United States, which has previously criticized the ICC and imposed sanctions on its officials, acknowledged Duterte’s arrest. A State Department spokesperson said the U.S. was aware of Philippine authorities’ actions but did not provide further comment.
Legal experts say Duterte’s arrest underscores the growing reach of international justice, as the ICC seeks to hold former leaders accountable for alleged human rights abuses.
With inputs from agencies
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