MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is on high alert and preparing to deploy a 7,000-strong force to arrest former President Rodrigo Duterte, following the issuance of a red notice by the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol).

This comes as the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigates Duterte over thousands of deaths linked to his controversial anti-drug war from 2016 to 2022.

According to sources familiar with the matter, security efforts are focused on securing key transit points, including seaports and airports, ahead of Duterte’s potential return from Hong Kong, where he arrived with his family and former officials. His trip has raised speculation that he might be avoiding arrest, though his legal counsel insists the visit is for a long-planned gathering with overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

While Duterte’s location in Hong Kong has sparked fears of evading the arrest warrant, he remained defiant in a campaign speech on March 9, 2025, where he expressed readiness to face arrest. “What was my sin? I did everything in my time so Filipinos can have a little peace and tranquility,” he said, adding that he would accept jail if necessary.

The ICC’s investigation into Duterte began in September 2021, centered on alleged extrajudicial killings during his drug war. Although the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019, the court maintains jurisdiction over actions that occurred before the withdrawal. Duterte has consistently rejected the court’s authority, calling any charges against him a matter for Philippine courts to address.

Despite the red notice, only Duterte has been named, leaving out key figures such as former PNP chief Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, who was involved in the drug war. Some legal experts suggest this may reflect a selective approach by the ICC.

As the PNP prepares its operations, including a significant deployment in Metro Manila and Davao, the government has vowed to cooperate with any requests from Interpol for assistance in executing the arrest. However, the Bureau of Immigration confirmed that there are no restrictions on Duterte’s travel, including no hold departure order, allowing him to leave the country as planned.

The Marcos administration has yet to confirm whether an arrest warrant has been issued but maintains that law enforcement will act if required. The situation remains tense, with the government ready for “any eventuality.”

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