Palace: Duterte’s arrest not state kidnapping, lawful

Malacañang denied on Wednesday, March 12, that former President Rodrigo Duterte's arrest was 'state kidnapping,' stating that it complied with its commitment to Interpol regarding the International Criminal Court's warrant.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro explained that taking someone by force without authority constitutes kidnapping but emphasized that Duterte was lawfully served an arrest warrant and transferred to The Hague on the same day following legal procedures.

Vice President Sara Duterte had previously claimed her father's arrest was 'state kidnapping,' but Castro maintained that the government acted legally in sending Duterte to The Hague.

Duterte was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Tuesday morning, served an arrest warrant from the ICC transmitted through Interpol, and left for The Hague later that day to face charges of crimes against humanity.

Castro also defended the legality of the arrest by stating all necessary legal elements were met, including Interpol's assistance request, thus dismissing any claims of kidnapping or denying medical attention.