BY: CHARLES NIKKO LIMON
Progressive groups in Baguio staged a protest following the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte by Interpol. They called for his accountability over the alleged extrajudicial killings under his administration’s war on drugs.
Wearing Duterte masks and holding prison bars, the protesters symbolized their demand for justice.
“We are relieved that Duterte has finally been arrested. We have long called for justice since the start of the drug war,” said Gabriel Siscar of Kabataan Partylist.
According to government data, 6,248 individuals were killed in police operations from 2016 to 2022. However, the International Criminal Court (ICC) estimates the number at 30,000.
Protesters also urged accountability for the alleged red-tagging of activists, forced disappearances, trumped-up charges, and political killings under Duterte’s rule.
“Many activists in Cordillera became victims of political killings,” Siscar added.
Despite the Philippines’ withdrawal from the ICC, activists argued that Duterte’s arrest was legal.
During a press briefing, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that the government only followed its commitment to Interpol.
“Interpol asked for help, and we obliged because we have commitments. If we refuse, they won’t help us with cases involving Filipino fugitives abroad,” Marcos said.
Meanwhile, public opinion on Duterte’s arrest remains divided.
“I disagree with the arrest. He helped many people during the pandemic,” said Rohel Ferrer.
“Why arrest him? He’s already old. They should let him go,” added Lino Akilit.
On the other hand, some agreed with the decision.
“He has serious charges against him, so I support the arrest,” said Crispin Almares.
“He was responsible for many deaths,” Jane Awtida added.
Former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested at NAIA upon arrival on Tuesday after Interpol served an arrest warrant for crimes against humanity filed with the ICC.
He was then transferred to Villamor Air Base, where he was flown to The Hague, Netherlands.
Senator Bong Go expressed disappointment over Duterte’s arrest and urged the public to pray for him.
“It’s heartbreaking. He’s already 80 years old, and they’re taking him to another country. Please pray for him,” Go said.
Vice President Sara Duterte also condemned the arrest, calling it an insult to Philippine sovereignty.
“I cannot accept that we are being treated like doormats by foreign powers. We should have national pride,” she stated.
A chartered plane flew Duterte out of Manila at 11:03 p.m., with a layover in Dubai before landing in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
A video shared by former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea showed Duterte having lunch inside the plane and appearing to be in good condition.
