No official arrest warrant has been issued against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte by the International Criminal Court (ICC) as of March 11, Tuesday. However, persistent rumors have fueled public speculation, especially following Duterte’s recent visit to Hong Kong on March 9, 2025.
During his address to a crowd of overseas Filipino workers at Southorn Stadium in Wan Chai, Duterte vehemently denied committing crimes against humanity during his presidency. He dismissed the allegations as politically motivated and questioned the basis for any potential charges. “I served my country the best way I knew how,” Duterte declared, drawing applause from his supporters.
PNP Denies Knowledge of Any Arrest Warrant
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has confirmed that it has not received any information regarding an arrest warrant for Duterte.
PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo stated that no official communication from the ICC had been relayed to their office.
Furthermore, she emphasized that enforcing an international arrest warrant within Philippine territory would present complex legal and jurisdictional challenges.
ICC Investigation Continues
The ICC remains steadfast in its probe into Duterte’s controversial anti-drug campaign, which resulted in thousands of deaths. While the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019, the court maintains that it still holds jurisdiction over crimes committed while the country was a member.
The Marcos Jr. administration has signaled a more open stance on cooperating with the investigation, a departure from Duterteโs staunch opposition to the courtโs authority.
Duterteโs Hong Kong Visit: Coincidence or Strategy?
Duterteโs unexpected trip to Hong Kong, a jurisdiction beyond the ICCโs reach, has sparked intrigue.
Critics suggest the visit may be a strategic move to assess his options should legal actions escalate.
However, the former president has brushed off such claims, maintaining that he has no plans to evade justice. “I am not afraid. If they want me, I will face them,” he said, underscoring his defiance.
For now, the world watches as the situation unfolds. With no official arrest warrant issued, Duterte remains a free manโbut for how long?
National and international observers continue to monitor developments, as the shadow of the ICC investigation looms large over the former president’s future.
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