The Hague, Netherlands – Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has been taken into custody by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to face charges of crimes against humanity related to his administration’s controversial “war on drugs.” In a video message prior to his arrest, Duterte stated, “I am responsible,” acknowledging his role in the anti-drug campaign that resulted in thousands of deaths.

Duterte, 79, was apprehended in Manila and subsequently transferred to The Hague, where he is expected to appear before the ICC in the coming days. The charges against him include allegations of forming and funding death squads targeting suspected drug users and dealers during his tenure as both mayor of Davao City and president of the Philippines.

In his video address, Duterte expressed his willingness to accept accountability for the actions taken under his leadership, emphasizing his commitment to serving the country and protecting law enforcement and military personnel involved in the drug crackdown.

The ICC’s arrest of Duterte marks a significant moment, as he becomes the first former Asian head of state to face trial for crimes against humanity. Human rights advocates and families of victims have lauded this development as a crucial step toward justice, having previously lost faith in the domestic legal system’s ability to address the alleged abuses.

Duterte’s legal team has challenged the ICC’s jurisdiction, citing the Philippines’ withdrawal from the Rome Statute in 2019. However, the ICC maintains that it retains authority to prosecute crimes committed before the withdrawal.

As Duterte prepares for his initial court appearance, the international community watches closely, recognizing the case’s potential implications for global accountability and justice.