SOUTHERN LEYTE – Former Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte was arrested and extradited to The Hague, Netherlands, on March 11, 2025, following an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Duterte faces charges of crimes against humanity in connection with his administration’s controversial “war on drugs.”
His arrest, which took place upon his arrival from Hong Kong last March 11, has sparked nationwide debate, with supporters and critics reacting to the unfolding events.
Born in Maasin City, Southern Leyte, Duterte’s detention in a foreign jurisdiction has deeply alarmed many of his fellow Southern Leyteños. In response, many prayer vigils have been held across the province, calling for peace, unity, and justice.
In Maasin City, a prayer rally took place on March 11 and 12 at the City Plaza, fronting the Maasin Cathedral. The gathering was reportedly led by Adelle Geraldo, Lead Convenor of the Maasin for Duterte Volunteer Group. She confirmed that additional prayer rallies are being planned.
Maasin City Mayor Nacional Verano Mercado expressed concern over the former president’s arrest while emphasizing respect for legal due process.
“As someone with strong ties to Maasin City, he holds a place in our history, and we recognize his contributions to the nation, as we do with all past presidents. We respect the legal processes in place and trust that the matter will be handled fairly and in accordance with the law. In these times, we pray for peace, unity, and the rule of law to prevail in our country,” Mercado stated.
In Sogod town, a prayer rally was held on March 12 at Christ the Healer Compound, led by its owner, Dr. Jose Lito Trumata, alongside Rico Cajife of Hakbang Ng Maisug/Protect Sara Movement. Among the attendees were Duterte Diehard Supporters, members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and other religious groups. A second Grand Prayer Rally for Peace is scheduled for March 15 at the Sogod Municipal Plaza, spearheaded by former overseas Filipino worker Samson Prima Jr.
Meanwhile, in Macrohon town, a prayer rally was organized at the Macrohon Public Plaza on March 12. Organizers have secured permits for additional prayer gatherings, with more events possibly forthcoming.
The arrest of the former president has also prompted reactions from key national political figures.
Senator Alan Peter Cayetano cautioned that no Filipino, whether an ordinary citizen or a former president, should be handed over to a foreign court without first exhausting legal remedies within the Philippines.
“It is every Filipino’s basic right to undergo due process and be subject to our own justice system first. This incident risks sending the wrong message to Filipinos and the world that our judiciary can be bypassed,” Cayetano warned.
Former Senator Panfilo Lacson also stressed the government’s obligation to provide legal support to Duterte, as it does for all Filipino citizens facing trial abroad.
“More than being a former President, Rodrigo R. Duterte is a Filipino who will face trial before an international court. Our government must not lose sight of its obligation, as a matter of policy, to extend support to all Filipinos, as we consistently do, even to those already convicted and facing execution beyond our jurisdiction,” Lacson stated.
The ICC was established to prosecute individuals responsible for the most serious international crimes when domestic courts are unable or unwilling to act. However, the court relies on state cooperation to enforce its mandate, as it does not have the power to carry out arrests independently.
Duterte’s arrest marks a significant moment in international justice, reinforcing the principle that even the most powerful individuals may be held accountable by international law. However, the case also reignites debate over the ICC’s role and its implications for national sovereignty.
As the legal proceedings unfold, Duterte’s fate remains uncertain, while the Philippines watches closely, divided between calls for accountability and support for its former president.
(GMReyes, Jeraiah Hilot/The College of Maasin)
