Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has denied accusations of committing crimes against humanity in his controversial drug war, telling thousands of Filipinos in Hong Kong that his actions were meant to protect the people, SCMP reported.
Speaking at Southorn Stadium in Wan Chai on Sunday, the 79-year-old addressed concerns over the ongoing International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation, dismissing speculation about a possible arrest warrant.
“[The ICC] has been chasing me for a long time. What did I do wrong? I did everything that I could in my time, so there could be a little bit of quiet and peace for the lives of the Filipinos,” Duterte said.
He emphasized that his campaign against illegal drugs was not for personal gain. “Was it for myself? Was it for my family? It is for you and your children in our country.”
Duterte, who remains a polarizing figure, appeared unfazed by the possibility of facing jail time. “There is nothing we can do if we get arrested and jailed. In the meantime, just contribute … so when I get out of jail, you can make me a monument,” he said, drawing cheers and applause from the crowd.
The speech, lasting nearly an hour, was met with enthusiastic responses from overseas Filipino workers, highlighting the enduring support he enjoys among sections of the Filipino diaspora.
Duterte has been accused of committing crimes against humanity, primarily due to his administration’s aggressive anti-drug campaign from 2016 to 2022, which resulted in thousands of deaths. Human rights organizations estimate that the number of fatalities ranges from 12,000 to 30,000, with the killings peaking between 2016 and 2017.
Thje initiated a preliminary examination into these allegations in February 2018. In response, Duterte announced the Philippines’ withdrawal from the ICC in March 2018, a decision that took effect a year later. Despite the withdrawal, the ICC maintains jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was a member, specifically between November 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019.
In September 2021, the ICC authorized a formal investigation into the drug war, focusing on crimes committed during Duterte’s presidency. The investigation examines allegations of extrajudicial killings and other human rights violations. The current Philippine administration has expressed its intention not to cooperate with the ICC probe, citing concerns over national sovereignty.
Duterte has consistently denied authorizing extrajudicial killings, asserting that his actions were aimed at protecting the country from the scourge of illegal drugs. In an October 2024 Senate hearing, he reiterated his stance, stating that there were no “state-sponsored killings” during his tenure. He also acknowledged maintaining a small “death squad” during his time as mayor of Davao City, composed of gangsters tasked with eliminating other criminals.
