Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte made an unannounced visit to Hong Kong on Sunday, sparking speculation that he might be attempting to avoid a potential arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) over his presidency’s drug war, which saw a high number of extrajudicial killings. Duterte, along with his daughter and incumbent Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte, spoke at a campaign rally for senatorial candidates of their political party, Partido Demokratiko Pilipino, at Hong Kong’s Southorn Stadium ahead of the Philippines’ May 12 midterm elections.

In his speech, Duterte addressed reports of a possible ICC arrest warrant, stating he was ready to face jail if an arrest order is issued. The ICC has been investigating the numerous killings by police and gunmen during Duterte’s crackdown on illicit drugs from 2016-2022, which primarily targeted impoverished individuals. Duterte denies authorizing extrajudicial killings but openly threatened suspected drug dealers during his presidency.

Senior Philippine officials said Duterte is scheduled to return to Manila on Tuesday, but there’s a possibility he could extend his stay in Hong Kong. The current administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is preparing for any outcome if an ICC arrest warrant is issued. Security measures have been increased in Davao City, Duterte’s hometown, in anticipation of possible concern regarding his return.

The ICC, established in 2002, is the court of last resort for severe international crimes, including genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and aggression. Although the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019, the court maintains jurisdiction over crimes committed while the country was a member, potentially holding Duterte accountable for actions during his first six years in office.

Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/ex-philippine-president-duterte-shrugs-off-possible-arrest-icc-drug-war-during-trip-hong-kong