12-3-2025 (MANILA) Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s journey to The Hague marks the beginning of what could become a far-reaching investigation into his administration’s controversial drug enforcement campaign.
The former leader’s arrest at Manila’s primary airport whilst returning from Hong Kong on 11 March 2025 has sparked intense speculation about potential proceedings against other high-ranking officials implicated in the deadly anti-narcotics crusade.
The scope of potential prosecutions remains unclear, though numerous officials have been named in various submissions to the International Criminal Court (ICC). These include former police chiefs, cabinet members, and prominent political figures who allegedly played pivotal roles in implementing or defending the contentious policy.
A particularly noteworthy complaint, initially lodged by barrister Jude Josue Sabio in 2017, cast a wide net over the administration’s top brass. Though Sabio later withdrew his petition citing political considerations, it had already spotlighted key figures including then-Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre and current Senator Bato dela Rosa, who previously headed the national constabulary.
Further allegations emerged through a supplemental filing by former Senator Antonio Trillanes and ex-legislator Gary Alejano, which detailed the involvement of various police commanders and officers. Trillanes later suggested that Vice President Sara Duterte might face scrutiny, though this remains speculative.
The government’s stance, articulated through Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, indicates no additional ICC warrants have been served through Interpol channels. Castro emphasised that whilst authorities would handle any future warrants similarly to Duterte’s case, they are not actively monitoring potential suspects.
The brutal campaign’s toll remains contested, with official figures citing 6,000 deaths, whilst human rights organisations suggest a devastating toll of up to 30,000 lives lost, predominantly among small-scale drug users and dealers.
