The recent arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte by Interpol, with the cooperation of Philippine authorities, marks a significant moment in our nation’s history. For years, the shadow of accountability loomed over Duterte’s controversial war on drugs, and now, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has taken decisive action. While the arrest itself was expected, the divided opinions among Filipinos highlight the persistent fractures in our national unity.
Legal experts like Dean Ralph Sarmiento of La Salle Bacolod have weighed in on the implications of this arrest, alongside partisan voices such as Atty. Salvador Panelo and Atty. Harry Roque. Despite varied opinions, one thing is clear: the cooperation of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration with Interpol played a pivotal role in executing the ICC warrant. This demonstrates how politics often intersects with justice on an international scale.
Duterte’s war on drugs, which claimed thousands of lives according to government data—though human rights groups estimate the toll to be much higher—has left a lasting impact on our country. While he once projected confidence that he would evade ICC scrutiny, his current predicament underscores the inevitability of facing consequences for actions that many view as crimes against humanity. For a leader who boldly pursued his campaign promises, his legacy now faces intense scrutiny.
As an ordinary Filipino observing this moment, I feel a mix of pity and reflection. Duterte’s leadership style was undeniably bold—unlike any other president before him—but it also came with moral and legal complexities that cannot be ignored. In a country where rewriting history seems easier than confronting uncomfortable truths, we must ask ourselves: what lessons can we learn from this chapter?
At its core, this moment is not just about Duterte; it is about us as a nation. Mistakes are inevitable in life, but accountability is essential. Instead of pointing fingers or deepening divisions, we should focus on our shared responsibility to contribute positively to our country’s future. Politicians may come and go, often driven by self-interest, but as citizens, we must rise above hypocrisy and unite in our efforts to rebuild trust and integrity.
The arrest serves as a reminder that no individual is above the law and that justice can prevail even amid political complexities. As Filipinos, let us channel this moment into collective introspection and action—working together to restore our nation’s greatness through accountability, unity, and hope for a brighter tomorrow.
When my father, Desiderio T. Deferia, the original author of this column “Wise or Otherwise,” was appointed Vice Mayor of Cadiz City after Ferdinand Marcos Sr.‘s ouster in 1986, he stepped down to avoid a potentially violent confrontation between Mayor Rowena Guanzon’s supporters and his own. My father chose peace over the complexities of politics, departing this world in 2015 with his integrity intact—untainted by the corruption that plagues many leaders today. His legacy reminds us that true leadership is not about clinging to power but knowing when to let go for the greater good.
As for “Tatay Digong,” should reincarnation exist, may he choose his allies wisely in his next life. For us Filipinos, the coming elections offer a chance to reflect on what we truly need in a leader—someone who values unity, integrity, and the welfare of the nation above all else.
May we rise to this challenge and make decisions that honor the sacrifices of those who came before us. ||
