THE “Young Guns” bloc in the House of Representatives on Tuesday lauded the peaceful and efficient execution of the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant and the Interpol Red Notice against former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, calling it a landmark step toward justice for the thousands of victims of extrajudicial killings.
Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil and Criminal Investigation and Detection (CIDG) chief Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III led authorities in taking custody of Duterte upon his arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 Tuesday from Hong Kong.
Assistant Majority Leaders Pammy Zamora of Taguig City,
Jay Khonghun of Zambales and Jil Bongalon of Ako Bicol Partylist all emphasized that the implementation of the ICC warrant is proof that justice will always catch up to those who commit grave crimes.
“This is a victory for justice and accountability. The ICC warrant is not just symbolic—it is a clear signal that no one is untouchable, not even a former president. Former President Duterte must face the consequences of his actions,” they said.
According to them, this development should serve as a warning to all leaders who abuse power.
“The Duterte administration’s bloody drug war has long been condemned worldwide. The issuance of an ICC arrest warrant and an Interpol Red Notice means there is no escape from justice,” the House leaders said.
They emphasized that protecting Duterte from accountability would be a disservice to the Filipino people.
“The government must take a stand—will it side with justice, or will it shield someone wanted for crimes against humanity? The world is watching, and we must be on the right side of history,” they pointed out.
The lawmakers said that Duterte’s allies should refrain from portraying the ICC arrest warrant as the product of political maneuverings.
“They say this is just politics, but the ICC does not issue arrest warrants without substantial evidence. This is not a political stunt—this is justice catching up with the former president,” they said.
The Young Guns vowed to keep pushing for justice for the victims of extrajudicial killings and called on the Duterte camp to stop evading responsibility.
“The thousands of families who lost their loved ones deserve closure. Duterte must stop running from accountability. No one is above the law—not him, not anyone,” they said.
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