section_path: Reactions/Human rights advocates
section_name: Human rights advocates
paragraph_text: Human rights advocates
  
  The arrest was positively received by the surviving family members of drug war victims. Neri Colmenares, who serves as counsel for the victims, noted that the arrest is a welcome development that "sends a powerful message" and is an important step toward justice for the victims. Kristina Conti, who serves as an assistant to counsel at the ICC, expressed hope that Duterte's arrest would lead to a trial.
  
  Lawyer Chel Diokno of the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG), who is running as a first nominee for Akbayan in the 2025 congressional elections, stated: "For decades, Duterte thought himself untouchable. But history catches up with even the most ruthless despots". According to Diokno, an official government report recorded 20,322 drug-related deaths, of which 3,967 were attributed to law enforcement operations, while the remaining 16,355 were classified as vigilante killings.
  
  Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International, called Duterte's arrest "a monumental step for justice". Callamard previously served as Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions under the United Nations Human Rights Council, which included conducting investigations in the Philippines. She was barred from visiting the country during Duterte's presidency.
  
  The International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines described the arrest as a "resounding message that crimes against humanity will not go unpunished". Human Rights Watch said that "Former President Duterte's arrest and transfer to The Hague is a long-overdue victory against impunity that could bring victims and their families a step closer to justice."