The Department of Justice (DOJ) assured the public that former President Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest strictly followed local and international legal procedures.
“The execution of the International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant of arrest, which was received by the Philippine Center for Transnational Crime (PCTC) from Interpol (International Criminal Police Organization), followed established protocols to ensure due process and the protection of the former president’s rights,” the DOJ said in a statement.
The department confirmed the arrest was peaceful and orderly, with no resistance or disruptions. Law enforcement agencies handled the process professionally, ensuring all legal safeguards were observed.
The ICC pre-trial chamber issued the warrant for the crime against humanity of murder under the Rome Statute. The DOJ emphasized that Philippine law enforcement carried out the arrest as part of international cooperation.
Under Section 17 of Republic Act 9851, the Philippines can surrender suspects to the appropriate international court for crimes against humanity. Despite withdrawing from the ICC in 2019, the country remains an Interpol member.
“Interpol has played a crucial role in many cases pursued by the DOJ involving subjects who have fled the country in attempts to evade accountability. It is through Interpol that we are able to solve crime on a global scale – a trend that the Philippines has fallen victim to in many ways. Thus, cooperation with Interpol is imperative,” the DOJ stated.
Upon receiving the arrest warrant, the Philippine National Police (PNP), with DOJ prosecutors present, arrested Duterte at Ninoy Aquino International Airport upon his return from Hong Kong.
“DOJ prosecutors were present to observe the process and attest to its legality, ensuring that the arrest complied with both local and international standards,” the statement said.
Authorities formally informed Duterte of his rights and the charges against him under Article 59 of the Rome Statute. Due courtesy was also extended to him and his entourage throughout the process.IMT
