Duterte arrested in Manila after ICC warrant issued

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was taken into custody on March 11, 2025, after an International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for alleged crimes against humanity. This follows his controversial anti-drug campaign that reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths. Duterte was apprehended upon returning to Manila from Hong Kong. The Philippine government confirmed it received the ICC warrant, despite Duterte's claims questioning its validity. His former spokesperson argued that the arrest is unlawful since the Philippines had withdrawn from the ICC. Rights groups have welcomed Duterte's detention, viewing it as a step toward accountability for the violence during his presidency. The current government has indicated it may comply with the ICC's request to hand over Duterte.