The International Criminal Court (ICC) commenced pretrial hearings Monday for former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, examining allegations of crimes against humanity linked to the deadly “war on drugs” conducted during his presidency and prior role as mayor of Davao City. The hearings, taking place in The Hague, will assess whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed to a full trial.
Duterte, 80, did not appear in court, having previously indicated he would waive his right to be present as prosecutors began presenting their case. The prosecution alleges Duterte was involved in the commission of dozens of killings during the anti-drug campaign. The four-day confirmation-of-charges hearing will determine if the evidence warrants a formal trial, with judges expected to issue a written decision within 60 days following the conclusion of the hearings.
The case represents a significant shift in Duterte’s fortunes, given his repeated and vocal criticism of the ICC. It similarly offers a potential avenue for justice for the families of victims and survivors of the six-year “war on drugs.” Human Rights Watch characterized Monday’s hearing as “a critical step in ensuring justice for victims of the Philippines’ ‘war on drugs’,” even as victim’s families described the proceedings as a “moment of truth.”
The ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor initially requested arrest warrants in connection with the Philippines investigation, according to the ICC website. The current hearings follow a period of investigation into alleged crimes committed in the Philippines between November 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019. The investigation focuses on alleged murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts committed during the “war on drugs” campaign.
Victims wishing to participate in the ICC proceedings are required to be represented by legal counsel or a team of lawyers, as outlined on the ICC’s website. The confirmation-of-charges hearing is a crucial stage in the ICC process, determining whether the prosecutor has presented enough evidence to justify proceeding to a full trial.
As of Monday, February 23, 2026, the ICC has not issued a statement regarding the evidence presented during the first day of hearings, and no immediate response has been issued by representatives of Duterte.
