President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. addressed supporters of former president Rodrigo Duterte following his recent arrest, emphasizing that the government is simply upholding the law.

“The government is just doing its job,” Marcos said.

Duterte was arrested upon his arrival from Hong Kong at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3. He was served a warrant of arrest from Interpol in connection with charges of crimes against humanity related to his controversial anti-drug campaign.

Marcos reiterated that the government operates under the rule of law and honors its international obligations.

“We are a member of the community of nations. We must live up to our responsibilities to the commitments that we have made to the community of nations,” he stated.

“And that is what has happened here. Politics doesn’t enter into it,” he added.

On political motives

Supporters of Duterte, including former Palace spokesperson Harry Roque, have called for a “People Power” movement in opposition to the Marcos administration’s role in Duterte’s arrest.

Marcos, however, dismissed allegations of political persecution, questioning why the government would target Duterte when he is no longer in a position to seek higher office.

“Why go after him? Right? And besides, it was 2017, I wasn't there yet, I was still a civilian then,” he said, referring to the ICC case filed against Duterte.

“So, this is the evolution of his case. And this is where we end up,” he added.

On Tuesday evening, Duterte departed the country on a chartered flight to The Hague.