Duterte’s Arrest Reignites Debate Over Press Killings in the Philippines

The recent arrest of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, following an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant, has rekindled urgent calls for justice over the numerous journalist killings during his presidency. International human rights organizations, including Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International, have emphasized the deep scars left on press freedom during Duterte’s administration.

Duterte’s presidency, which spanned from 2016 to 2022, was marked by an aggressive and often violent “war on drugs” that drew widespread international condemnation. However, beyond extrajudicial killings of alleged drug offenders, Duterte’s regime was also one of the most dangerous periods for media workers in the country. RSF reported that at least 20 journalists were killed during his tenure, making the Philippines one of the deadliest places for press professionals during that time.

The journalists who died often covered sensitive topics, including corruption, politics, and illegal narcotics. Many of these cases remain unresolved, and the lack of accountability has created a climate of fear and impunity. RSF argues that Duterte’s consistent vilification of the media and specific targeting of outlets critical of his administration emboldened those who sought to silence journalists by violent means.

Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International both hailed Duterte’s arrest as a significant turning point for justice and accountability in the Philippines. Amnesty called it a “monumental step,” underscoring the importance of upholding international human rights law. They also highlighted that the move sends a clear message to leaders worldwide that grave violations—especially those affecting the freedom of the press and human life—will not go unpunished.

While Duterte’s supporters have dismissed the charges as politically motivated, press freedom advocates insist that the arrest opens the door to long-denied justice for victims and their families. It also renews hopes that the government may take meaningful steps to protect journalists and dismantle the impunity that has plagued the country for years.

With the legal proceedings underway, all eyes are now on how the Philippines—and the international community—will confront the legacy of media repression under Duterte’s rule.