Sara Duterte Travels to The Hague to Support Father Rodrigo…

Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte travels to The Hague to support her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, after his arrest by the ICC on charges of crimes against humanity. She condemns the arrest as oppression and aims to help his legal defense while coping with her own political turmoil, including impeachment allegations. Vigils for victims of Duterte’s drug war have emerged, reflecting ongoing public concern and demand for justice.

Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte is traveling to The Hague to support her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, following his arrest on a warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC). He faces allegations of crimes against humanity due to a controversial drug war during his presidency from 2016 to 2022. On Tuesday, Rodrigo Duterte was flown to The Hague shortly after his arrest in Manila.

Sara Duterte has condemned her father’s arrest, labeling it as “oppression” and asserting that it represents an affront to Philippine sovereignty. Her office confirmed that she departed for Amsterdam to assist in organizing her father’s legal defense team, indicating the family’s determination to contest the charges brought against him.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. defended the government’s actions regarding Rodrigo Duterte’s transfer to the ICC, asserting compliance with Interpol obligations. Meanwhile, Duterte’s youngest daughter, Veronica, intends to file a habeas corpus request with the Philippine Supreme Court to return her father home, as stated by former chief legal counsel Salvador Panelo.

Sara’s visit to The Hague occurs amidst a political crisis, with her recent impeachment by the Philippine lower house of Congress highlighting her growing discord with Marcos Jr. Lawmakers have raised various accusations against her, which she has vehemently denied, claiming they are politically motivated attacks.

Although the ICC has not disclosed specific charges, investigations into allegations of crimes against humanity linked to Rodrigo Duterte have been ongoing since 2018. His presidency was marked by a ruthless campaign against drugs, resulting in the deaths of over 7,000 individuals according to police records. Following his arrest, vigils were held by victims’ families and supporters, emphasizing the demand for justice related to the ex-president’s policies.

In summary, Vice President Sara Duterte’s journey to The Hague underscores the gravity of her father’s situation following his arrest related to alleged crimes during his presidency. This development not only signifies a pivotal moment for the Duterte family but also highlights the complex political challenges facing Sara amidst her impeachment. As the ICC continues its investigation, the implications of these events resonate widely within the Philippines and beyond.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com