Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested and is facing crimes against humanity charges, a development rooted in the conflict between the Duterte and Marcos families. The alliance that once existed has deteriorated, creating significant political ramifications as both families jockey for power ahead of the 2028 election. The arrest has ignited discussions about human rights and could impact upcoming midterm elections hold implications for Sara Duterte’s future position.
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has been swiftly arrested and taken to The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity related to his aggressive ‘war on drugs,’ which has reportedly resulted in approximately 30,000 deaths since 2016. Activists, victims, and lawyers have spent years documenting the abuses under Duterte’s regime, often at significant risk to themselves. Notably, his arrest is intertwined with the intense feud between the Duterte and Marcos families, former allies turned adversaries.
Initially, the Marcos-Duterte alliance seemed fruitful, with Ferdinand Marcos Jr. capitalizing on the Duterte name during the 2022 election. However, as tensions rose, Sara Duterte criticized President Marcos Jr., even suggesting grave remarks regarding his father’s remains. According to Professor Maria Ela L Atienza from the University of the Philippines, this escalating conflict largely stems from the dynastic ambitions each family harbors for the 2028 presidential election.
Public comments from Marcos Jr. concerning the International Criminal Court (ICC) evolved in tandem with family disputes. The Duterte administration’s actions were decisive, as Marcos Jr. explained that Duterte’s arrest aligned with Interpol commitments, even referencing the ICC’s involvement. Tony La Viña, a legal expert, noted that the swift execution of the arrest warrant was remarkable, allowing no breathing room for a possible restraining order from the Supreme Court.
As the political landscape shifts, the Dutertes may find their power waning. Rodrigo Duterte, despite intending to run for mayor in Davao, is now out of the country as midterm elections approach. This election cycle is significant not only for him but also for Sara Duterte, who faces an impending impeachment trial. Their family must secure allies in the Senate to safeguard her vice-presidential position and potential 2028 presidential aspirations.
Supporters of Rodrigo Duterte have been framing him as a victim of the Marcos family’s actions, claiming he was unjustly treated. This perspective has raised ironic criticisms from victims of Duterte’s drug war, who were denied legal recourse. Professor Atienza remarked on the irony of such narratives, emphasizing the difficulty in selling concepts like “people power” or “rule of law” in light of past actions by the Dutertes. As both families continue to vie for public favor, the political climate in the Philippines is likely to intensify, as noted by Cleve V Arguelles, CEO of WR Numero Research, who highlighted the critical nature of the narratives shaped in the coming weeks.
Rodrigo Duterte’s rapid arrest underscores the fragility of political alliances in the Philippines, particularly the escalating conflict between the Duterte and Marcos families. As Duterte faces charges at the ICC, the implications of this feud extend to upcoming elections, impacting both his political career and that of his family. With the stakes high and implications for human rights discourse growing, the political landscape in the Philippines remains deeply unsettled and intense.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
