Former president Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on Tuesday morning, March 11, upon arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), following a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). The arrest, which has sent shockwaves across the country, was met with strong reactions from political figures, including Senator Imee Marcos.
According to an official statement from Malacañang, the Interpol Manila office received the official copy of the arrest warrant in the early hours of March 11. By 9:20 a.m., Duterte arrived in Manila from Hong Kong via Cathay Pacific flight CX 907. Upon landing, Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon served the ICC notification of arrest. The statement assured that Duterte was in good health and had undergone medical checks conducted by government doctors before being taken into custody by authorities wearing body cameras.
The former president faces charges of crimes against humanity related to his administration’s war on drugs, which allegedly resulted in nearly 30,000 deaths, according to human rights groups. Despite the Philippine government’s withdrawal from the ICC in 2019, the international tribunal proceeded with its investigation and issued the warrant through Interpol. The Marcos administration, while not directly cooperating with the ICC, complied with Interpol’s request, leading to Duterte’s arrest.
Imee Marcos Speaks Out on Duterte’s Arrest
Senator Imee Marcos expressed her disbelief and sorrow over the arrest of Duterte, calling it a disturbing moment in the country’s political landscape. During an interview, she stated that she was completely shocked and saddened by the development.
“Ahh namomroblema ako, medyo nabigla ako sa pangyayari na inaresto si Presidente Duterte, at ahh, ‘di ako maniwala eh. Medyo nayanig ako masyado, kawawa naman, kawawa naman si President Duterte,” Marcos said.
The senator lamented what she described as a cycle of political retribution that has repeatedly plagued the Philippines. She argued that such arrests do not benefit the struggling Filipino people.
“Hindi na tayo natuto. Gulo lang ang dulot nito. Walang pakinabang sa mga naghihirap sa bayan ang bangayan ng politika. Rumal ba ang buhay natin dahil sa pamumulitika? Umasenso ba ang ating bansa?” Marcos asked.
She further compared Duterte’s situation to previous leaders who faced legal battles, including her father, the late former President Ferdinand Marcos, former President Joseph Estrada, and former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. She said that political infighting has only led to turmoil rather than progress.
Marcos also revealed that she learned about Duterte’s arrest while she was en route to Palompon, Leyte, and that she was overcome with emotion upon hearing the news. However, when asked if she planned to visit Duterte, she stated that it was uncertain, as no visitors were currently being allowed.
Women’s Month Celebration in Ormoc
Senator Imee Marcos was in Ormoc City on the morning of Duterte’s arrest to attend the Women’s Month celebration at Doña Feliza Mejia covered court. She was welcomed by City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez and 4th District of Leyte Representative Richard Gomez.
As part of the event, Marcos led the distribution of PHP 5,000 worth of groceries to 200 women solo parents who own small grocery businesses. The initiative is part of her #ImeeSolusyon flagship project, which aims to support communities by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Marcos emphasized her commitment to addressing the needs of people across the country, particularly in the provinces.
“Ang isa sa mga layunin ko bilang isang lingkod bayan ay matugunan ang pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan sa iba’t ibang probinsya,” she said.
Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez and Representative Richard Gomez expressed gratitude for Marcos’ support, stating that her initiatives are helping uplift the lives of many Ormocanons.
What’s Next for Duterte?
The arrest of Duterte marks a pivotal moment in Philippine politics. The former president’s legal team has yet to issue a formal statement, but sources indicate they are preparing to challenge the warrant. Meanwhile, the ICC remains firm in its investigation into the alleged extrajudicial killings linked to his anti-drug campaign.
Political analysts suggest that Duterte’s arrest could deepen the political divide in the country. Some argue that it reinforces international accountability, while others, like Marcos, see it as part of an ongoing cycle of political retribution.
As the situation unfolds, Duterte’s fate will largely depend on legal proceedings and the Philippine government’s approach to handling international pressure. For now, the country watches closely as the former president’s case develops.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.