GABRIELA hails ex-president Duterte's arrest as 'pivotal step toward accountability'
By Jel Santos

Women’s rights group GABRIELA hailed the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte as a major step in the fight for justice and human rights, calling it an initial victory for victims of his controversial drug war and other alleged crimes against humanity.
On Tuesday, March 11, Duterte was arrested upon his arrival at Manila’s international airport following an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant issued in connection with an ongoing investigation into his administration’s controversial drug war campaign.
“This development marks a pivotal step toward accountability for the numerous allegations of human rights violations and crimes against humanity committed during his administration,” Clarice Palce, the secretary general of GABRIELA, said in a statement.
“His fascist and misogynist rule resulted in grave rights violations, especially among women and marginalized communities, and so the fight continues until Duterte is finally convicted and made to pay for his crimes.”
Palce stressed that the former president’s arrest signifies progress in the people’s pursuit of justice for victims of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and other alleged abuses under his leadership.
“The arrest of Duterte is a significant progress in the people’s fight for justice not only for the victims of his drug war, but also for the countless victims of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and other grave human rights abuses,” she said.
“It sends a powerful message that perpetrators of such heinous acts will be held accountable,” she went on.
Meanwhile, GABRIELA urged authorities to ensure a transparent trial that will deliver justice to thousands of Filipino families affected by Duterte’s policies.
The women’s group also called for accountability from officials and institutions that enabled his rule, warning against any attempts to obstruct the legal process.
“Filipino women and people will continue to be vigilant against maneuvers to derail the wheels of justice towards Duterte’s imprisonment, including efforts to keep ICC proceedings from taking due and immediate course,” Palce said.
GABRIELA warned political personalities against protecting Duterte, vowing to continue their pursuit of justice against the country’s most powerful individuals.
“The people will not rest until the long arm of justice catches up to you,” she said.