The swift takeover of former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, now facing charges of crimes against humanity at The Hague concerning his administration’s anti-drug campaign, reflects the culmination of years of activism and legal efforts. Documenting the abuses under Duterte’s leadership came with significant risks, but it also highlights a deeper, more complex political drama: a bitter family feud with the current president, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Originally allies in the 2022 election, where Marcos Jr. utilized Duterte’s political popularity without criticizing the war on drugs, the relationship between their families has soured. Sara Duterte, now the vice-president, has launched fierce attacks against Marcos Jr., even threatening to exhumate and discard the remains of Marcos Jr.’s father. Duterte’s accrued political influence from his brutal anti-drug war could face diminished effects due to his forced international departure. As crucial midterm elections approach, the Duterte family might struggle to maintain its political strength, especially with the upcoming impeachment trial for Sara Duterte. The manipulation of political narratives and opinions will determine the narrative’s success, affecting both their national influence and their grip on power in Davao.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/12/rodrigo-dutertes-arrest-could-be-telling-blow-in-the-philippines-dynastic-feud