In a monumental turn of events, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on March 7, 2025, marking a significant victory in the long-fought battle for justice against his notorious “war on drugs,” which claimed thousands of lives. The arrest, facilitated by the International Criminal Court (ICC), comes after years of relentless efforts by Catholic priest Flaviano Villanueva, who has dedicated himself to gathering evidence of alleged extrajudicial killings under Duterte’s regime.

Father Villanueva’s crusade against Duterte’s brutal tactics began in 2016, shortly after the president took office, when bodies began to pile up on the streets of Manila. With the support of key witnesses, including a former contract killer who worked under Duterte, Villanueva has meticulously collected testimonies and forensic evidence to expose the atrocities committed during the drug war. The priest’s tireless work culminated in this historic moment, as the ICC has now deemed the evidence sufficient to pursue charges of crimes against humanity.

As the news broke, the Filipino community erupted in a mix of disbelief and joy. “This is a day that no one believed would come in this lifetime,” said Villanueva, reflecting on the culmination of nearly a decade of struggle. The priest’s efforts have not come without peril; he has faced threats and violence for his unwavering commitment to justice.

The ICC’s involvement signals a potential reckoning for Duterte’s administration, which has been accused of sanctioning widespread killings and human rights abuses. With the arrest now a reality, victims’ families and advocates are clinging to hope that justice will finally be served, as the world watches closely. The fight for accountability is far from over, but this pivotal moment marks a significant step toward healing a nation scarred by violence and impunity.