Duterte finally arrested

In a historic and shocking turn of events, former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested early this morning at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3. The arrest was carried out by elements of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), with assistance from Interpol officers who served a Red Notice issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Duterte’s Furious Defiance

Eyewitnesses reported that Duterte, now 79 years old, was visibly enraged upon realizing that the authorities were enforcing the ICC’s warrant. As PNP and CIDG operatives closed in, Duterte reportedly yelled at the officers, demanding they kill him on the spot rather than allow him to be taken into custody.

“You will have to kill me… Hindi ako pa payag diyan kakampi sa mga puti..” 

Despite his defiant stance, officers escorted the former president without the use of excessive force.

The Charges Against Duterte

The ICC’s Red Notice and warrant stem from Duterte’s infamous “War on Drugs,” which human rights organizations have long claimed was a campaign of extrajudicial killings. The charges include:

Crimes Against Humanity:

1. Mass extrajudicial killings – Over 30,000 suspected drug users and pushers were allegedly killed in police operations and vigilante-style executions.
2. Systematic executions of minors and innocents – Numerous reports indicate that women and children were caught in the crossfire or deliberately killed to send a message.
3. Torture and enforced disappearances – Allegations persist that many victims were abducted, tortured, and summarily executed.

Key Witnesses to Duterte’s Crimes

Several former high-ranking officials, human rights advocates, and families of victims have come forward as witnesses, including:

• Edgar Matobato and Arthur Lascañas – Former Davao Death Squad (DDS) members who testified about Duterte’s direct involvement in vigilante killings.
• Senator Leila de Lima – A vocal critic of Duterte, imprisoned for years under dubious charges, who has long documented his human rights abuses.
• Families of EJK victims – Many relatives of slain individuals, including grieving parents and spouses, have provided damning testimonies.
• Former PNP officials – Some law enforcement officers have turned whistleblowers, revealing Duterte’s orders for a “kill list” targeting suspected drug offenders.

Innocent Victims of the War on Drugs

Among the thousands of casualties, innocent children and women were tragically caught in the bloodshed:

Children Killed:

1. Kian delos Santos (17 years old) – Executed by police despite pleading for his life.
2. Reynaldo “Kulot” de Guzman (14 years old) – Found dead with multiple stab wounds after being abducted.
3. Carl Angelo Arnaiz (19 years old) – Shot by police after being accused of robbery, despite forensic evidence suggesting he was murdered.
4. Myca Ulpina (3 years old) – A toddler killed during a police anti-drug operation.

Women Killed:

1. Cristina Jose – A community leader assassinated after criticizing Duterte’s drug war abuses.
2. Hilda de los Santos – A pregnant woman mistakenly shot by police in a raid.

What Happens Next?

With Duterte now in police custody, legal proceedings will determine whether he will be extradited to The Hague to face trial at the ICC. The arrest marks a turning point in Philippine history, as it sends a strong message about accountability and the consequences of state-sanctioned violence.

However, Duterte’s arrest is expected to spark political turmoil. His loyal supporters, including former government officials, are likely to challenge the legal process. Meanwhile, human rights groups and the families of victims are celebrating what they see as long-overdue justice.

The world now watches as the Philippines navigates the consequences of Duterte’s brutal legacy.