FILE PHOTO/REUTERS

China denied news reports that former president Rodrigo Duterte and his family has requested for asylum in China.

Guo Jiakun, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said Duterte’s visit to Hong Kong is a private holiday. China has never received an application from ex-President Duterte and his family to seek asylum from the Chinese government.

Last March 7, Duterte went to Hong Kong to attend an event for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

On the same day, the Pre-Trial Chamber I of the International Criminal Court released the warrant arrest against the former president.

Duterte was arrested on March 11 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport after he and his party arrived from Hong Kong.