Duterte Prepares for a Lengthy Legal Battle at the International Criminal Court
Former President Transferred to ICC Detention Facility Ahead of Court Appearance
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has taken full responsibility for his administration’s controversial “war on drugs” as he braces for a protracted legal battle at the International Criminal Court (ICC). In a video message posted on his Facebook account, Duterte declared, “Whatever happened in the past, I will stand at the forefront for our law enforcement and military. I have already stated that I will protect you, and I take full responsibility for everything.”
This marks Duterte’s first public statement since his arrest in Manila on murder charges related to his anti-drug campaign, which resulted in the deaths of thousands of alleged drug dealers and users. He was taken into custody by the ICC and transported to The Hague on Wednesday.
The video, which has amassed over 10 million views, features Duterte wearing a plain white shirt, speaking with a serious demeanor. The faint hum of an aircraft engine in the background suggests it was recorded during his flight to the Netherlands.
In an official statement, the ICC confirmed Duterte’s transfer to its custody, stating, “He was arrested by the authorities of the Republic of the Philippines on charges of murder as a crime against humanity.” The former president is expected to make his initial court appearance before an ICC judge in The Hague in the coming days. He has been transferred to a detention facility on the Dutch coast, where he will remain as legal proceedings unfold.
