Arrest of ex-Philippine president Duterte: A historic turning point in the fight against impunity
March 12 2025
3 minutes
On March 11, 2025, former Filipino President Rodrigo Duterte arrested at Manila airport. Duterte, who was returning from a campaign visit to Hong Kong ahead of the May 12 midterm elections, was detained at the request of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. He is suspected of crimes against humanity as part of his notorious "war on drugs."
A bloody legacy
Duterte came to power in 2016 and immediately launched a brutal campaign against drug crime. Human rights groups estimate that this “war on drugs” has claimed tens of thousands of lives, including those of children. The victims were often from the most vulnerable communities, and were executed without due process or any tangible evidence.
Not only suspected drug users and traffickers were targeted by Duterte's policies. Journalists, activists and human rights organizations also faced severe repression. Critical NGOs and media outlets were intimidated or arrested. Journalists such as Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Ressa were prosecuted, and one of the country's largest media outlets was even closed down. In this way, people who stood up for human rights silenced.
An important step towards justice
Duterte's arrest is a crucial milestone in the fight against impunity. "This is an important moment," said Kris Vanslambrouck, Asia expert at 11.11.11“It is a clear signal that even former leaders cannot continue to hide behind their political power.”
It is a good thing that Duterte has to answer in court for the atrocities committed during his rule. Tens of thousands of victims and their families deserve justice.
For relatives like Rosalina Cabas, Duterte's arrest finally means hope. Her son Nono (23) was executed by the police in 2018. "They called it a 'legitimate operation', but there was no evidence. After that, my family was intimidated into silence," she says.
Despite all the risks, they never gave up the fight for justice. Together with PAHRA, a broad alliance of human rights organizations and partner of 11.11.11, they continue to fight against impunity and for justice. “We demand justice for Nono and for all other victims of extrajudicial killings.”
Egay Cabalitan, President of 11.11.11-partner PAHRA, emphasizes that the arrest marks a turning point: “The days of abuse of power are over. No more power, no more immunity, no more escape from justice.”
Call for further prosecution
Human rights organizations stress that justice must not stop with Duterte himself. PAHRA calls for the prosecution of his entourage: “His regime did not run on its own. Those who protected, carried out or condoned his crimes must also be held accountable.”
Meanwhile, 11.11.11 are committed to supporting victims of human rights violations, together with organizations such as PAHRA. In a climate of intimidation and repression, their work remains essential. They document crimes, raise public awareness, and offer victims and their families help via a special hotline. In this way, families are guided in their search for justice. The coming months will show how the legal process against the former Philippine leader will develop further.
Kris Vanslambrouck
Asia Coordinator
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