Jonathan Head, BBC's Southeast Asia correspondent, dives into the controversial legacy of Rodrigo Duterte, the former Philippine president now facing charges from the International Criminal Court. They discuss the dark appeal of Duterte's harsh anti-drug policies, which resonated with many amidst poverty and crime. The conversation reveals the intricacies of his arrest and its implications for political dynamics in the Philippines, shedding light on a polarized society grappling with justice and the human cost of Duterte's brutal campaigns.
Duterte's presidency was marked by a violent anti-drug campaign that, while initially popular, failed to solve deeper societal issues.
His arrest by the International Criminal Court highlights the complex political dynamics in the Philippines, sparking divided public opinion among his supporters.
Deep dives
The Brutal Campaign Against Drugs
Rodrigo Duterte's presidency was characterized by a brutal anti-drug campaign that resulted in approximately 30,000 extrajudicial killings. His use of harsh rhetoric and aggressive tactics resonated with many Filipinos who felt their country was plagued by crime and corruption. Despite the apparent short-term reduction in crime, this violent approach failed to address the underlying issues, with drug trafficking and criminal activities continuing to thrive. The brutality of police operations left lasting scars on communities, leading to grief and fear among the families of victims who were often innocent individuals.
The Arrest and Legal Consequences
Duterte was arrested upon returning to the Philippines, following an international warrant issued by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity. This warrant pertains to his actions during his anti-drug campaign, as well as earlier crimes when he was mayor of Davao. Despite his previous confidence in avoiding legal repercussions through political alliances, the situation dramatically shifted with his arrest, raising questions about the future of his political influence. As he faces these serious charges, his supporters are divided, with some demanding accountability and others portraying him as a martyr of the state.
Public Perception and Political Fallout
The public response to Duterte's actions and subsequent arrest reflects a deeply polarized society in the Philippines. While many view his anti-drug policy as necessary for restoring order, others criticize the lack of due process and the overwhelming loss of life. With social media playing a critical role in shaping opinions, a significant number of Filipinos still support Duterte, believing he was working in the best interest of the country. The ongoing political tensions between the Duterte and Marcos families add another layer of complexity, as both factions vie for control in a changing political landscape.
The former president of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested by the International Criminal Court on charges of crimes against humanity. Duterte oversaw a bloody war on drugs that left tens of thousands of people dead, but he remains extremely popular with many in the Philippines, who say he cleaned up their country.
On this episode, presenter Jonny Dymond speaks to the BBC's Southeast Asia correspondent Jonathan Head about Duterte’s years in power, and why the current government in Manila has turned him over to the ICC.
The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.
Producers: Peter Goffin and Tom Kavanagh
Sound engineers: Mike Regaard and Jonny Baker
Assistant editors: Richard Fenton-Smith and Sergi Forcada Freixas
Senior news editor: China Collins
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