Magdalo stalwarts former senator Antonio Trillanes IV and former party-list Rep. Gary Alejano were pleased upon learning that former President Rodrigo Duterte was finally arrested Tuesday over allegations of crimes against humanity.
Both ex-soldiers turned politicians represented Magdalo in filing one of the many lawsuits against Duterte before the International Criminal Court (ICC). The former president was accused of several crimes largely in connection with his bloody war on drugs during his administration.
“In 2017, Magdalo filed a case before the ICC against Duterte. After 8 years, at last, the butcher is arrested. To everyone who was with us in this long journey towards justice for the thousands of EJK (extrajudicial killing) victims, thank you very much!” Trillanes said in a social media post.
In a separate statement, Alejano hailed the ICC for finally issuing the arrest warrant, calling it a historic step in the fight for justice. Malacañang confirmed this development, saying the warrant was coursed through the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) earlier at dawn.
“For years, thousands of Filipinos have fallen victim to the brutal and indiscriminate war on drugs—a policy that has inflicted suffering on countless families, particularly the poor,” Alejano said, citing the cases of EJK victims such as Kian de los Santos, among others.
Alejano also recognized the sacrifices of whistleblowers Edgar Matobato and Arturo Lascañas, who exposed the alleged killings under Duterte’s administration. “They abandoned their former lives, gave up their liberty, and endured immense suffering in pursuit of the truth,” he said.
The former lawmaker also paid tribute to human rights defenders, lawyers, and organizations who have stood firm in seeking justice despite threats and harassment.
“The ICC warrant sends a clear message: Accountability cannot be escaped. The law must be upheld fairly—no matter who is in power,” Alejano said. He added that this development must not be taken as foreign interference, but the wheel of justice taking its course.
“If our own justice system had functioned properly, we would not have reached this point. As a nation, we must stand for justice, not fear. True change is built on accountability, not violence. The fight for a government that serves and protects its people continues,” Alejano said.