Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest for crimes against humanity marks a pivotal moment in the dynastic feud between his family and that of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The Duterte-Marcos alliance, initially formed during the 2022 election, has deteriorated, leading to political tensions as they both vie for power for the upcoming 2028 elections. Duterte faces challenges in his political career as he navigates these complex dynamics.
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested and sent to The Hague to face crimes against humanity charges related to his controversial “war on drugs,” which has reportedly resulted in around 30,000 deaths since 2016. Activists, lawyers, and victims have tirelessly documented the abuses committed under Duterte’s administration, often risking their lives in the process. His surrender to the international court appears to be influenced by a bitter feud between the Duterte family and that of current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The tension between the two families, once political allies during the 2022 election, escalated dramatically. Marcos Jr. initially avoided criticizing Duterte’s war on drugs to leverage the Duterte name’s popularity. Yet, the relationship soured, particularly with Sara Duterte, Marcos Jr.’s running mate and daughter of Rodrigo Duterte, launching personal attacks against Marcos Jr., including threats regarding the remains of the former dictator, Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
Political analysts, including Professor Maria Ela L. Atienza of the University of the Philippines, suggest that the families’ alliance was bound to falter due to their competing ambitions for the presidency in 2028. Marcos Jr. has modified his approach regarding cooperation with the International Criminal Court (ICC) as public hostility between the families intensified, asserting that while the Philippines would not assist the ICC, they would respect any arrest warrant from Interpol.
Following Duterte’s arrest, Marcos Jr. stated that the action complied with their Interpol commitments, noting that it coincidentally aligned with an ICC matter. Lawyer Tony La Viña commended the Marcos administration’s swift execution of the arrest, noting the quick deportation left little room for legal recourse via the Supreme Court.
Duterte’s political future is uncertain, especially with crucial midterm elections looming in May. He aims to reclaim his post as mayor in Davao City but faces strong competition from another political dynasty, posing a potential threat to Duterte’s legacy there. The outcome may hinge on the political makeup in the Senate, as Sara Duterte prepares for impeachment proceedings shortly after the elections.
Supporters of Rodrigo Duterte have framed him as a victim of political vengeance, claiming he was denied due process and unjustly handed over to the international community. This stance has drawn criticism from the families of those slain in the drug war, who often faced extrajudicial killings without any legal process. Prof. Atienza remarked on the irony, as those in power now advocate for principles they once derided.
The escalating struggle between the Duterte and Marcos families will likely intensify, with public opinion and narratives becoming increasingly influential. Cleve V. Arguelles, CEO of WR Numero Research, emphasized the battle for power at both the national and local levels, stating, “It’s all at stake now.”
Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest is a significant event that underscores the political dynamics between the Duterte and Marcos families in the Philippines. This incident not only raises questions about Duterte’s legal standing but also highlights the evolving power struggle in the lead-up to the 2028 presidential election. Both families are vying for political survival, with the outcome potentially reshaping the country’s political landscape. The midterm elections and ongoing controversies surrounding Sara Duterte’s vice-presidency add to the urgency of the political battle.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
