Former President Rodrigo Duterte has been taken into custody by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to face charges of crimes against humanity over his controversial war on drugs.

The 79-year-old strongman arrived at Rotterdam-The Hague Airport on Wednesday evening, where Philippine authorities turned him over to ICC officials. Within hours, he was whisked away to The Hague Penitentiary Institution, where he now awaits trial—an unprecedented downfall for a leader who once vowed to “slaughter” drug suspects.

VP Sara Lands in Amsterdam, Fights for Access

As her father was being locked away, Vice President Sara Duterte landed in Amsterdam late Thursday night, scrambling to meet with lawyers and gain access to her detained father.

The Office of the Vice President (OVP) confirmed her arrival at 9:27 p.m. CET (2:27 a.m. Manila time), where she was met by Dutch officials. “The Vice President is scheduled for a series of meetings today, March 13, as she awaits her chance to visit former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte,” her office said.

Celebrations and Outrage Erupt in the Philippines

Human rights activists hailed the move as a victory for justice, with ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan calling it “a crucial step” toward accountability. However, Duterte’s fierce loyalists are furious, accusing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of betraying his predecessor by allowing his capture.

Protests erupted outside the ICC detention center, with dozens of die-hard Duterte supporters chanting, “Take him back!”

Medical Check, VIP Treatment?

Upon arrival in The Hague, Duterte was met by a medical team, with an ambulance pulling up to the airport hangar. A black SUV, escorted by police, then sped away—destination unknown.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Embassy in The Hague provided the former president with winter clothing, essentials, and legal assistance. His longtime ally, former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, was issued a 15-day visa to act as legal counsel and is set to visit him in detention.

What’s Next for Duterte?

Duterte’s first court hearing is expected in the coming days, where ICC judges will confirm his identity and outline the charges. A full trial could follow—if the court finds sufficient evidence.

If convicted, Duterte could face life in prison—a staggering reversal of fortune for the once-feared president.

His legal team vows to fight back, arguing that the ICC has no jurisdiction since the Philippines withdrew from the court in 2019.

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