International arrest of Rodrigo Duterte: shifting security dynamics in the Pacific and weakening positions of China

On March 11, 2025, the International Police Department of the Philippines arrested former President Rodrigo Duterte in Manila in accordance with the decision of the International Criminal Court.

The grounds for his arrest were suspicion of committing crimes against humanity, in particular, organizing the execution of thousands of Filipino citizens between 1998 and 2021 (during the so-called "drug war").

As a result, former President Duterte was taken to The Hague, where he is expected to face a multi-year trial. The fact that the International Criminal Court is prosecuting Duterte may be the reason for the decline of his political dynasty, which has been considered one of the most influential in the Philippines.

It is noteworthy that Rodrigo Duterte and his daughter, Vice President of the Philippines Sara Duterte (currently under impeachment proceedings), visited Hong Kong before his arrest.