ICC prosecutor: Fear of Duterte led to slays
The International Criminal Court (ICC) heard from the prosecution and victims' counsel that former President Rodrigo Duterte fostered an environment of fear, which they allege directly led to killings. His defense countered, stating the prosecution "cherry-picked" his "bombastic rhetoric" and that his words were not meant to incite violence. Pre-trial hearings in The Hague are addressing three counts against the former president.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) began confirmation of charges hearings against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on February 23, 2026, in The Hague, Netherlands. Prosecutors presented evidence alleging Duterte was 'pivotal' in the murder of thousands during his anti-drug campaign from November 2011 to March 2019. The prosecution argued that Duterte fostered an environment of fear and directly authorized extrajudicial killings, with charges focusing on three counts of crimes against humanity (murder, torture, and rape). Key incidents include killings by the 'Davao Death Squad' during his time as Davao City mayor and murders of 'high-value targets' during his presidency from 2016-2022.
Duterte's defense team countered that the prosecution 'cherry-picked' his 'bombastic rhetoric' and argued his words were not meant to incite violence. They maintained the charges were politically motivated. The former president, who was arrested in Manila on March 11, 2025, and surrendered to ICC custody on March 12, 2025, waived his right to attend the hearings in person, citing age and health issues. Over 500 victims are participating in the proceedings, which mark a significant moment for justice after failed domestic investigations.
The hearings are being conducted before Pre-Trial Chamber I, composed of Presiding Judge Iulia Motoc, Judge Reine Alapini-Gansou, and Judge Socorro Flores Liera. Prosecutors urged judges to confirm the charges for trial, stating Duterte 'must be held to account.' The defense maintains his innocence. The ICC's jurisdiction covers the period from November 1, 2011, to March 16, 2019, despite the Philippines' withdrawal from the Rome Statute in March 2019.
Victims and their representatives have expressed concerns about potential renewed violence if a Duterte family member regains power, particularly with Vice President Sara Duterte announcing her 2028 presidential bid. The hearings continue through at least February 26, 2026, with judges required to decide within 60 days whether to confirm the charges and proceed to a full trial. This represents a landmark case for the ICC, testing its ability to hold former heads of state accountable for alleged crimes against humanity.
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