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MANILA, Philippines - Senator Alan Peter Cayetano has formally requested that former President Rodrigo Duterte be placed under house arrest at the Philippine Embassy in The Hague, Netherlands. This request, detailed in a resolution filed by the senator, stems from growing concerns regarding Duterte’s security and well-being following his recent health issues and the potential for threats.

Cayetano’s move comes amidst heightened anxieties about the safety of the former president, particularly given his age and reported health vulnerabilities. The senator argued that placing Duterte under house arrest within the secure confines of the Philippine Embassy offers a practical and readily available solution to ensure his protection while allowing him to receive necessary medical attention and remain accessible to his legal team.

“We need to prioritize the safety and security of a former president, especially given the current geopolitical climate and the potential for threats against prominent figures,” Cayetano stated in a press conference. “The Philippine Embassy in The Hague provides a secure and familiar environment, allowing for constant monitoring and swift response to any potential security breaches.”

The resolution outlines a plan where Duterte would be accommodated within the embassy grounds, with access to medical professionals and communication lines. It also proposes the deployment of additional security personnel to bolster the existing embassy security measures. The Senator emphasized that this is not intended as a punitive measure, but rather a proactive step to safeguard a former head of state.

This proposal has sparked a range of reactions, with some legal experts questioning the legality of placing a private citizen under house arrest, even a former president. Others have expressed support for Cayetano’s initiative, citing the paramount importance of ensuring Duterte's safety. The Department of Foreign Affairs has yet to issue an official statement regarding the proposal, but sources indicate they are reviewing the legal implications and logistical feasibility of the request.

The Hague is a significant location, being home to the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has issued arrest warrants against Duterte related to his administration’s “war on drugs.” While Cayetano’s proposal is primarily driven by security concerns, it also indirectly addresses the ongoing legal challenges facing the former president. The senator believes that ensuring Duterte’s safety is crucial, regardless of the legal proceedings against him.

The resolution is now under review by the appropriate Senate committees, and its passage remains uncertain. However, Cayetano’s initiative has brought renewed attention to the security vulnerabilities of former high-ranking officials and the need for robust protective measures. The outcome of this request will likely have significant implications for the future security protocols surrounding former Philippine presidents.

The situation continues to evolve, and further updates will be provided as they become available. The focus remains on ensuring the well-being and safety of former President Rodrigo Duterte.