Duterte arrested, transferred to ICC; initial hearing held

Former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested by Philippine authorities and transferred to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands on March 11.

The arrest followed a warrant issued by the ICC, with Duterte arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) from Hong Kong leading to speculation and emotional reactions from his allies.

Duterte was treated legally during the arrest process; no physical force was used against him, and he received food, water, and medical attention.

On March 14, an initial hearing was held at the ICC where Duterte appeared via video to be informed of his rights as a defendant and alleged crimes committed as stipulated in his arrest warrant.

Duterte's confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled for September 23.

The Palace cited Republic Act 9851 or the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law as legal justification for surrendering Duterte to the ICC.

Victims of the drug war, advocates, and critics laud the arrest as a 'day of reckoning,' while supporters organize prayer rallies and online campaigns.