If jail is my fate, I will accept it, says Duterte

Jamie Liu and Associated Press

Former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte addressed some 2,000 Filipinos in a rally in Hong Kong yesterday during an unannounced trip amid rumors that the International Criminal Court may issue an arrest warrant against him.

Filipinos packed the area around the Southorn Stadium in Wan Chai, with some holding a photo of Duterte. Police stood ready at the scene.

Duterte, 79, told the crowd about the news reports regarding his potential warrant of arrest.

"What was my sin?" Duterte asked. "I did everything in my time so Filipinos can have a little peace and tranquility. If this is my fate in life, it's OK, I'll accept it. I can't do anything if I get arrested and jailed."

His daughter Sara Duterte, the incumbent vice president, also spoke at the event as she called for support for the senatorial candidates of Duterte's political party.

The gathering, according to Filipino senator Bong Go's Facebook page, was also a thanksgiving event for the country's overseas workers in Hong Kong.

The Standard has exclusively reported that Duterte was seen on Saturday afternoon at Lee Theatre Plaza in Causeway Bay, accompanied by around 10 people that included bodyguards.

According to Philippines news media, Duterte arrived in Hong Kong on Friday, along with his wife, former first lady Honeylet Avancena, and daughter Veronica "Kitty" Duterte.

The ICC is reportedly investigating Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity connected to thousands of deaths during his controversial anti-drug campaign, from his multiple stints as Davao City mayor to his time as president.

His surprise trip to Hong Kong has intensified Philippine media speculation that he may choose not to return to the Philippines after his Hong Kong visit and instead seek refuge in China.

Salvador Panelo, the former chief presidential legal counsel for Duterte, has dismissed suggestions that Duterte is fleeing the country.