House leaders urge focus on drug war victims, not Duterte's arrest

House Assistant Majority Leader Jude Acidre urged the public to focus on drug war victims like Kian Delos Santos, Carlo Angelo Arnaiz, and Renato 'Kulot' De Guzman rather than former President Rodrigo Duterte's arrest.

Acidre emphasized that Duterte's arrest by Interpol based on an ICC warrant is about justice for extrajudicial killings (EJK) victims, not persecution.

Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega echoed Acidre’s call, stressing that discussions should center on justice rather than sovereignty concerns.

Paolo Ortega expressed confidence that more individuals would come forward with testimonies now that international justice seems attainable.

Jil Bongalon of the Ako Bicol Party-list noted Duterte's administration lacked thorough investigations into EJKs, leading victims to seek international intervention.

Acidre and other officials stressed that Duterte’s arrest is a move towards accountability for his actions during his presidency and time as Davao City mayor.