The International Criminal Court (ICC) began confirmation of charges hearings Monday against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, examining allegations of crimes against humanity committed during his administration’s “war on drugs.” The proceedings commenced as Duterte’s legal counsel argued the charges were politically motivated and sought their dismissal, while victims’ representatives urged the court to move forward with a full trial.
Duterte, who served as president from 2016 to 2022, waived his right to be present at the hearing, stating he does not recognize the ICC’s authority. His lawyer asserted his innocence, according to reports. ICC prosecutors allege Duterte was involved in at least 76 murders linked to the drug war campaign, which resulted in the extrajudicial killings of tens of thousands of people, according to human rights groups. Prosecutor Mame Niang told the judges the proceedings were “a reminder that those in power are not above the law.”
The hearings are taking place after a dramatic series of events, including the arrest and deportation of Duterte last March, precipitated by a falling out between his daughter, Sara, and current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., according to the BBC.
Meanwhile, President Marcos indicated he would not be directly monitoring the ICC hearings, but would receive updates on the proceedings, emphasizing his focus remains on national concerns.
Duterte’s lead counsel, in opening statements to the ICC, characterized the former president’s often-violent rhetoric as hyperbole and placed blame for the ICC investigation on the Marcos administration, alleging political targeting. The defense team reportedly urged the court to “Give Tatay Digong back to Filipinos,” a reference to Duterte’s nickname.
Counsel representing victims of the drug war urged the ICC to confirm the charges against Duterte, seeking accountability for the alleged crimes. The hearings are scheduled to continue for four days, after which ICC judges will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed to a full trial.
Senator Christopher Go urged calm amid the ICC confirmation of charges hearing, according to SunStar Publishing Inc. Former Senator Leila de Lima recalled previous claims of “death squads” linked to Duterte as the ICC hearings opened, as reported by the Inquirer.net.
