VP Sara Duterte returns to Manila as former Pres Duterte arrested at NAIA

Vice President Sara Duterte returned to Manila from Hong Kong on Tuesday afternoon via Philippine Airlines flight PR 319, hours after her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Former President Duterte faces charges of crimes against humanity related to his drug war and is currently being held under custody at Villamor Air Base following the arrest by authorities on a warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Rights groups estimate that tens of thousands of individuals, mostly poor men without evidence of drug involvement, were killed under Duterte's administration during his presidency.

Sara Duterte landed in Manila at around 3:21 p.m. via Philippine Airlines flight PR 319 and was accompanied by her children. She did not pass through the regular passengers lane and went directly to the NAIA Terminal 1 Complex before exiting.

Her office stated that she will address any relevant matters at an appropriate time and requested understanding as she handles these issues.

Vice President Duterte told reporters last night at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City that her father had willingly decided to return to the Philippines with the expectation of surrendering to local authorities, emphasizing he did not meet officials from the Chinese government during their stay in Hong Kong.