PNP on Alert Over Interpol Red Notice for Duterte

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The Philippine National Police (PNP) has reportedly been placed on heightened alert following claims that the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) has issued a red notice for the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte. A report from the Manila Times, citing an anonymous high-level source, suggested that law enforcement agencies are preparing for Duterte’s possible apprehension.

Security Measures Intensified

At least 7,000 police officers are allegedly being mobilized across the country to locate and arrest Duterte. Security forces have also ramped up monitoring at major entry points, including airports and seaports, as precautionary measures should the former leader attempt to return to the Philippines. Duterte is currently under investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity linked to his controversial war on drugs.

Duterte’s Hong Kong Trip Fuels Speculation

Duterte, accompanied by his common-law wife Honeylet Avanceña, daughter Kitty, and several former high-ranking security officials, departed for Hong Kong last Friday. His sudden departure has sparked widespread speculation that he may be evading arrest or seeking political refuge in China. However, his former chief legal counsel, Salvador Panelo, dismissed such allegations, stating that Duterte’s trip was solely to attend an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) gathering in Wan Chai.

During his appearance at the event, Duterte addressed his supporters and downplayed the ICC probe. He made light of the situation, saying, “If this is my fate, I’ll accept it,” while reiterating his refusal to cooperate with the international tribunal.

Government’s Official Response

Malacañang has yet to confirm the existence of an Interpol red notice for Duterte. Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Jay Ruiz stated that while the government is “prepared for any eventuality,” it has not received any formal notification from Interpol or the ICC regarding an arrest warrant. He further assured that the administration would comply with any lawful requests from international law enforcement bodies.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Immigration confirmed that there are no hold departure orders against Duterte, allowing him to travel freely.

Uncertainty Surrounding ICC Proceedings

The Marcos administration has maintained a cautious stance on the matter, adhering to its previous policy of non-cooperation with the ICC. It remains unclear how the government would respond if a formal request for Duterte’s extradition or custody were made by the ICC.

Legal analysts also noted that Duterte is the only individual named in the alleged red notice, raising questions about why other key figures from his drug war—such as former PNP chief and now-Senator Bato Dela Rosa—were not included. Some experts suggest that the ICC may be issuing notices in phases, focusing on Duterte first before targeting other officials who played roles in the campaign.

As of now, there has been no official confirmation of the red notice, and authorities continue to monitor developments while awaiting further information from international law enforcement agencies.

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