The Philippine government is prepared for any possible developments after reports surfaced about an alleged arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) against former president Rodrigo Duterte, according to Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Jay Ruiz.
“The government is prepared for any eventuality,” Ruiz told reporters on Sunday.
Duterte is currently in Hong Kong to attend the “Pasasalamat kay PRRD with OFWs” event at Southorn Stadium in Wan Chai. Promotional materials for the gathering have prominently featured his name and image.
His daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, was spotted entering the venue earlier in the day. The Office of the Vice President (OVP) confirmed her presence in Hong Kong for the event, which aims to thank Duterte for his leadership.
Crowds of Filipinos lined up outside the stadium as early as 8 a.m. to catch a glimpse of the former president, with the queue extending along Johnston Road. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.