A NATION ON TRIAL

When justice falters at home, the International Criminal Court (ICC) becomes the last resort. Now, its gaze turns to the Philippines—where a cultural and political reckoning beckons

- Dorynna Untivero

A private jet sat on the tarmac of the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City. It was late in the evening of March 11, 2025, when photos of the Gulfstream G550 began circulating media channels.

Numerous military and police personnel surrounded the aircraft, awaiting its departure. It had been delayed for over 12 hours. Finally, at 11:03pm, the plane took off. Its destination was The Hague, Netherlands. On board was no other than former Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, arrested under a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). The charge? Crimes against humanity of murder, torture and rape.

This historic event occurred a few months ago when authorities from the Republic of the Philippines, in cooperation with Interpol, surrendered Duterte to the ICC. The transport of the former president attracted unprecedented public attention and became one of the most closely monitored flights worldwide as the jet carried him to the Rotterdam Airport. The arrest shocked both the Filipino nation and the international community. Duterte is the first Asian head of state to stand trial at the ICC, marking a significant moment for international human rights law and a considerable setback for his supporters globally. From a beloved commander-in-chief to an alleged despot, the 80-year-old's reputation shifted dramatically overnight. He is currently detained at the United Nations' Scheveningen prison. While in detention, he won as Davao city mayor during the Philippine midterm elections back in May. As of writing, he will remain sequestered until his trial scheduled on September 23, 2025.

FROM NUREMBERG TO THE HAGUE