The Philippines is anxious as news spreads that the International Criminal Court (ICC) might issue a warrant to arrest former President Rodrigo Duterte over his controversial “war on drugs.” This policy led to the deaths of many Filipinos during his presidency.
Duterte, who is currently in Hong Kong, has stated he will accept arrest if the ICC goes through with the warrant. However, the current Philippine government, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has not received any official news about an arrest warrant from Interpol.
Recently, a video showed the head of the Philippine National Police and an Interpol representative at the airport in Manila, which added to the speculation. Duterte’s “war on drugs” started when he became president in 2016. He promised to eliminate drug dealers, which led to serious accusations. Human rights groups claim that police and some vigilantes killed many unarmed people suspected of using drugs, while the authorities have denied these claims.
The ICC is investigating possible crimes against humanity linked to Duterte’s drug policy. Although Duterte pulled the Philippines out of the ICC, President Marcos’s government has indicated they could arrest him if necessary. A government spokesperson, Claire Castro, said the police are prepared to act if they receive an official request from Interpol.
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