MANILA, Philippines – Vice President Sara Duterte dismissed speculation that her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, attempted to seek asylum in China before his arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Duterte clarified that during her father’s recent trip to Hong Kong, he did not request asylum nor engage in any discussions with Chinese officials.
Speculation Over Hong Kong Trip
The former president’s visit to Hong Kong had fueled rumors that he was attempting to evade the ICC’s warrant by seeking refuge in China. However, his daughter firmly rejected these claims.
“My father did not seek asylum from China,” Sara Duterte said, adding that China’s foreign ministry had previously stated that the ICC should not be politicized.
‘Politically Motivated Arrest’
Sara Duterte also reiterated her stance that her father’s arrest was politically motivated, linking it to the 2028 presidential elections.
She further stated that there was “no point” in speaking with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., her former running mate, as she believes the legal action against her father is driven by political interests.
With Sara Duterte facing an impeachment trial backed by Marcos’ allies, tensions between the two camps continue to escalate, shaping the political landscape ahead of the next presidential race.