Duterte remains an enduring figure—seen by some as a hero who brought order and by others as a leader who undermined democracy and human rights. Photo Credit : Creative Commons
Duterte’s presidency (2016–2022) left a deep mark on the Philippines—widely supported by his loyalists yet harshly criticized by human rights groups. Now, as he faces international prosecution, the country watches as justice, power, and political influence collide.
The Rise: From Davao’s Strongman to National Leader
Rodrigo Duterte built his political career as the longtime mayor of Davao City, serving for over two decades. He gained a reputation for law and order, credited with transforming the city from a crime-ridden hub into one of the safest in the country. However, his methods—often linked to extrajudicial killings—sparked controversy and human rights concerns.
His 2016 presidential campaign struck a chord with frustrated voters. He promised to eradicate crime, drugs, and corruption within six months, portraying himself as a leader willing to do what others could not. His populist rhetoric, anti-elite stance, and street-level charisma propelled him to a landslide victory.
Once in office, Duterte launched his infamous war on drugs, a campaign that would define his presidency and eventually lead to his downfall.
The Drug War and Duterte’s Fall from Power
Duterte’s anti-drug campaign resulted in thousands of deaths, with official government figures reporting over 6,200 fatalities in police operations. However, human rights organizations estimate the real number to be much higher, with many deaths linked to extrajudicial executions.
Despite international condemnation, Duterte maintained strong domestic approval ratings, bolstered by his hardline stance and populist appeal. He silenced critics, jailed opposition figures, and targeted independent media. Yet, as his term neared its end in 2022, cracks in his power began to show.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) launched an investigation into Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, citing possible crimes against humanity. Despite Duterte withdrawing the Philippines from the ICC in 2019, the court maintained jurisdiction over crimes committed before the withdrawal, keeping him within its legal reach.
Domestically, Duterte attempted to secure political influence by backing his daughter, Sara Duterte, who won the vice presidency in 2022. However, his influence began to wane, especially as tensions arose between him and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. over policy disputes and governance priorities.
A Historic Arrest: Duterte in Custody
On March 11, 2025, Duterte was arrested in Manila upon arrival from Hong Kong. The ICC warrant, issued in March 2023, accused him of orchestrating extrajudicial killings as part of a systematic attack on civilians.
This arrest marks a historic first in Philippine history—no former president has ever been detained on international human rights charges.
Reactions to his arrest have been deeply divided:
• Supporters claim the ICC’s actions are politically motivated, arguing that Duterte was defending the country against crime.
• Human rights advocates and victims’ families see the arrest as long-overdue justice, holding Duterte accountable for thousands of deaths.
• The Marcos administration has remained neutral, avoiding direct involvement but not intervening in Duterte’s detention, signaling a shift in political alliances.
Despite Duterte’s legal troubles, his family remains deeply entrenched in Philippine politics. His daughter, Sara Duterte, continues to hold a high-ranking national position as vice president. However, she has been noticeably silent on her father’s arrest.
Sara Duterte’s own political standing has also faced challenges. Once seen as the natural successor to her father’s legacy, she has struggled to assert her independence amid increasing tensions with President Marcos Jr. Their relationship, once seen as a strategic alliance, has soured over governance disputes and power struggles within the administration.
Adding to her woes, Sara Duterte has been the subject of scrutiny over her handling of the Department of Education, which she oversees as secretary. Critics have pointed to budget misallocations, lack of substantial reforms, and allegations of mismanagement, further tarnishing her image. Meanwhile, internal divisions within Duterte’s political faction have weakened her influence, raising doubts about her future ambitions for the presidency.
Duterte himself had initially planned to run for mayor of Davao City in 2025 but withdrew his candidacy, endorsing Karlo Nograles instead. Analysts believe this was a strategic move to shield his family from further scrutiny. However, with his arrest, the question remains whether his political dynasty can withstand the growing legal and political pressures.
Justice or Political Retaliation?
Duterte’s arrest and possible trial at The Hague could set a precedent for accountability in the Philippines and beyond.
• If convicted, he would become one of the most high-profile world leaders to be sentenced for crimes against humanity.
• If the case stalls, it could reinforce the idea that powerful leaders remain above the law.
For many Filipinos, Duterte remains an enduring figure—seen by some as a hero who brought order and by others as a leader who undermined democracy and human rights.
As the legal proceedings unfold, one question looms: Will Duterte face the full force of international law, or will political maneuvering shield him from justice?
The world is watching.
