Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested under charges of crimes against humanity, a watershed moment initiated by the International Criminal Court (ICC) concerning his notorious 'war on drugs'. The Philippine police executed the arrest following a warrant issued by the ICC, citing Duterte's involvement in overseeing a campaign that reportedly resulted in thousands of Filipino deaths.

Upon arrival from Hong Kong at Manila's airport, Duterte was taken into custody. Conflicting sentiments engulfed the nation: some see this as long-overdue justice for alleged human rights abuses, while others advocate for Duterte, viewing him as a powerful figure against narcotics.

The ICC's probe centers on accusations that Duterte directed a brutal anti-drug campaign characterized by extrajudicial killings. Official figures suggest around 6,200 deaths were labeled as shootouts, though human rights groups argue the actual toll could surge to 30,000.

Duterte's arrest amplifies political division within the Philippines. Even after withdrawing the country from the ICC treaty in 2019, accusations suggest systematic abuses that remain under ICC jurisdiction since they occurred prior to the 2019 withdrawal.

The arrest also seeks answers from the Philippine government. A report by 'Europa Press' noted cooperation from current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who praised the adherence to international law, a stark contrast to the country's previous resistance to the ICC's investigations.

From a regional perspective, Duterte's arrest symbolizes a profound shift in legal and political accountability. Notably, Sara Duterte, his daughter and current vice president, has expressed concern regarding these developments and has traveled to the Netherlands, potentially to assist in her father's legal defense.

Legal expert opinions vary, with attorneys exploring avenues like habeas corpus to challenge Duterte's detention. Human rights advocates, such as Bryony Lau from Human Rights Watch, applaud this move as a step towards eradicating impunity and offering solace to victims' families.

Duterte's tenure, infamous for its promises to eradicate drug crime with a heavy hand, not only altered the Philippines' internal policies but also strained international relations, inciting criticism from global bodies advocating for human rights and legal accountability.

The geopolitical chessboard surrounding this case illustrates competing narratives within the Philippines and globally. The political dynamics of the Philippines' leadership, including feuds and alliances, particularly between the Duterte and Marcos family, add layers of complexity to the entire saga.

This dramatic legal development signals far-reaching consequences for other nations grappling with criticisms of human rights practices and calls to answer at international courts. The intention to arrest and extradite a former head of state to face international charges marks a pivotal escalation in the enforcement of global justice systems.

As Duterte awaits legal proceedings in The Hague, the implications of his arrest continue to ripple across the Philippines, from local streets to halls of power. His case will inevitably influence future political strategies and international diplomacy in Southeast Asia and beyond.