he Philippine government’s decision to cooperate with the International Criminal Court (ICC) and Interpol in the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte is a complex issue. It hinges on legal, political, and ethical considerations.

Legally, the ICC issued a warrant for Duterte's arrest on charges of crimes against humanity related to his anti-drug campaign. While the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019, the court retains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was still a member2. The government’s cooperation with Interpol to execute the warrant aligns with international commitments, even though some argue that the ICC lacks jurisdiction over the Philippines as a non-member4.

Politically, this move has sparked debates. Supporters see it as a step toward accountability for alleged human rights violations, while critics, including Duterte’s allies, question the legality and motivations behind the arrest1. Some have raised concerns about whether this reflects a failure of the Philippine justice system to address these issues domestically.

Ethically, the decision underscores the tension between national sovereignty and international justice. It raises questions about the balance between respecting domestic legal processes and fulfilling international obligations.

Left with no choice but to seek justice elsewhere

For decades, the Philippine judicial system has been plagued by inefficiency, corruption, and favoritism. Justice moves at a glacial pace, and only the wealthy and well-connected can afford to endure the drawn-out legal battles that often wear down less privileged litigants.

Time and again, powerful businesses and politicians have managed to tilt the scales in their favor, leaving ordinary Filipinos disillusioned and the country weaker as a result. This history of judicial failure has led many Filipinos to welcome the recent decision of the current administration to surrender former President Rodrigo Duterte to Interpol. He is now set to stand trial before the ICC for alleged crimes against humanity.

Many Filipinos believe that if Duterte had faced trial within the Philippine judicial system, he would have never been held accountable. The move to let the ICC handle the case reflects a broader recognition that domestic institutions remain ill-equipped to deliver true justice, especially when the accused is a figure of immense political influence.

Published 3/23/2025