In a recent press briefing, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Mao Ning, addressed the arrest of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, emphasizing China’s close monitoring of the situation and cautioning the International Criminal Court (ICC) against politicization and double standards.
On March 11, 2025, Duterte was apprehended at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport upon returning from Hong Kong. The arrest was executed based on an ICC warrant alleging crimes against humanity linked to his controversial anti-drug campaign, which reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths.
Mao Ning described Duterte’s arrest as a “significant sudden incident,” highlighting China’s attentive observation of ensuing developments. She reiterated China’s longstanding stance that the ICC should adhere strictly to the principle of complementarity, exercise its functions prudently by the law, and avoid politicization or double standards.
The principle of complementarity dictates that the ICC operates as a court of last resort, intervening only when national jurisdictions are unwilling or unable to prosecute alleged crimes. China’s emphasis on this principle suggests a preference for domestic legal processes over international intervention in such matters.
Rumors circulated that Duterte had sought asylum from the Chinese government to evade arrest; however, these claims were promptly refuted by his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte. She denounced the arrest as improper and politically motivated, asserting that her father should be tried within the Philippine judicial system rather than by an international body.
China’s response to Duterte’s arrest underscores its broader concerns about the potential misuse of international legal mechanisms for political purposes. By cautioning the ICC against politicization and double standards, China advocates for impartiality and fairness in international justice, aligning with its principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations.
The arrest has elicited mixed reactions globally. Human rights organizations and families of victims view it as a pivotal step toward accountability for the extrajudicial killings that occurred during Duterte’s tenure. Conversely, supporters of the former president perceive the ICC’s actions as an infringement on Philippine sovereignty and an example of international overreach.
As the situation unfolds, China’s position reflects its cautious approach to international legal interventions, advocating for respect for national sovereignty and the primacy of domestic legal systems in addressing internal matters. This stance aligns with China’s broader foreign policy principles, emphasizing non-interference and the equitable application of international law.
China’s reaction to Duterte’s arrest highlights its vigilance in monitoring international legal proceedings involving allied nations. By urging the ICC to avoid politicization and adhere to the principle of complementarity, China emphasizes the importance of impartiality and respect for national sovereignty in the pursuit of international justice.