Duterte’s Hong Kong Visit Sparks Arrest Warrant Speculation

HONG KONG, March 9, 2025 — Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte‘s unannounced visit to Hong Kong has raised eyebrows and sparked speculation that he may be attempting to evade a possible arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) related to his controversial war on drugs.

Duterte, 79, attended a campaign rally at the Southorn Stadium in Hong Kong’s Wan Chai district, where he served as a keynote speaker alongside his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, to rally support for senatorial candidates ahead of the Philippine midterm elections set for May 12.

During the rally, Duterte addressed the looming possibility of an ICC warrant and reiterated his willingness to accept the consequences of his actions. “What was my sin? I did everything in my time so Filipinos can have a little peace and tranquility,” he said. “If this is my fate in life, it’s OK, I’ll accept it. I can’t do anything if I get arrested and jailed,” he added amid cheers from the crowd of Filipino expatriates.

The ICC has been investigating Duterte’s administration for alleged extrajudicial killings resulting from his aggressive anti-drug campaign, which reportedly led to thousands of deaths, predominantly among the country’s poor. Human rights organizations estimate the death toll to be as high as 27,000, a figure far exceeding the official count of approximately 5,600.

Current Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration stated it has yet to receive official communication from Interpol regarding any arrest warrants. Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro asserted that Philippine law enforcement would comply with any legal requests, indicating readiness to cooperate with the ICC if necessary.

“Our law enforcers are ready to follow what law dictates if the warrant needs to be served,” Castro told reporters. However, it remains unclear how long Duterte plans to stay in Hong Kong, which is not a member of the ICC.

Duterte, while addressing the crowd, justified his drug crackdown, stating, “Assuming it’s true, why did I do it? For myself? For my family? For you and your children, and for our nation.” His remarks suggest that he stands resolute in what he deems necessary for the country, despite the controversies surrounding his administration.

The Hong Kong police maintained a visible presence near Duterte’s accommodations, indicating heightened security measures for the visiting dignitary. A request for comment from the Hong Kong security bureau and police went unanswered.

The Philippine presidential office has dismissed rumors that Duterte’s visit is an attempt to evade potential legal issues. It encouraged supporters to respect the legal process while the ICC continues its investigations.

Duterte notably withdrew the Philippines from the ICC in 2019 in response to inquiries into his administration’s human rights record. Nonetheless, the court retains jurisdiction over crimes alleged to have occurred while the country was a member.

As speculations about potential deportation or arrest loom, security measures have been tightened in the Philippines, particularly in Duterte’s home region of Davao, where authorities are monitoring checkpoints and increasing security at airports.

“We’ve heard that an arrest warrant has been issued against former President Rodrigo Duterte for crimes against humanity. The government is prepared for any eventuality,” said communications secretary Jay Ruiz.

The situation continues to develop as Duterte’s political future, along with that of his family’s influence in Philippine politics, hangs in the balance amid these serious allegations.