The arrest of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is seen as a significant development in the pursuit of justice for victims of extrajudicial killings during his administration's drug war. Neri Colmenares, Bayan Muna chairperson and former lawmaker, together with other progressive groups, welcomed the arrest as a long-awaited but powerful message that justice can be obtained through persistent efforts.
Colmenares, who also served as a co-counsel in the crimes against humanity case filed with the International Criminal Court (ICC), emphasized the importance of Duterte's arrest in seeking justice for the thousands of victims of human rights violations. The Philippine National Police (PNP) detained Duterte in compliance with an Interpol red notice issued after an ICC arrest order.
In response to rumors of an impending ICC arrest order related to mass murder charges stemming from the drug war, Duterte and his associates traveled to Hong Kong to meet with overseas Filipino workers. Despite the controversial nature of his anti-drug campaign, which resulted in numerous deaths and drew criticism from human rights advocates, Duterte now faces charges of crimes against humanity for his role in these events.
Teddy Casiño, chairperson of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, highlighted that accountability for Duterte's actions is still incomplete, with many alleged conspirators remaining unpunished. Casiño stressed that while Duterte's arrest is a significant milestone, the fight for justice is ongoing, given the continued extrajudicial killings and human rights violations happening even after Duterte's term.
Malacañang confirmed Duterte's custody following the arrest for crimes against humanity, reporting that an ICC prosecutor had presented the arrest warrant upon Duterte's return to Manila. The official statement emphasized the importance of not only making an arrest but also ensuring due process, penalties, and prevention of similar atrocities in the future.
Colmenares, who represents victims' families in the ICC case against Duterte, acknowledged the long trial ahead and the significance of holding even tyrants accountable. The arrest serves as a signal that accountability cannot be evaded, but it is just one step in a larger pursuit of justice that must continue.
