# Rodrigo Duterte's Arrest Sparks Political Tensions in the Philippines

In a dramatic twist to the Philippines' political landscape, former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested and extradited to The Hague in March, where he faces charges of crimes against humanity related to his notorious drug war. Despite his current status as an inmate, Duterte's popularity has surged, especially ahead of the midterm elections set for Monday, where he is predicted to dominate the race for mayor of Davao City—his eighth term.

This sudden arrest has polarized the nation. While many citizens support the international investigation into his actions, a significant portion believes Duterte is the target of political persecution, especially in light of his history with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has seen his approval ratings plummet from 42% to 25% following Duterte's incarceration. Conversely, the popularity of Duterte's daughter, Sara, has risen amid the controversy, showcasing the enduring political influence of the Duterte family.

Moreover, the scene at the International Criminal Court's detention center has been marked by an outpouring of support for the former president, with numerous flower deliveries and birthday greetings flooding in, even as he faces the prospect of spending his remaining years in jail. Duterte’s case continues to highlight the complexities of political loyalty and public sentiment in the Philippines, as the nation grapples with its past and looks to the future.