Escudero calls for restraint on politicizing Duterte’s arrest

Senate President Francis Escudero called for restraint in using the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte for political gain.

Escudero urged candidates to avoid exploiting the issue during the upcoming midterm elections, emphasizing its seriousness and the need for national unity.

Duterte is set to be transferred to The Hague following his arrest on an International Criminal Court warrant related to a drug crackdown that rights groups estimate killed tens of thousands.

Escudero expressed hope that the ICC would respect Duterte's rights and ensure due process in accordance with the rule of law.

Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano criticized how Duterte was flown out of the country despite a pending petition at the Supreme Court, raising questions about the government's actions and potential precedents.