The International Criminal Court (ICC) began hearings Monday into allegations against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte related to the deaths of thousands of people during his administration’s “war on drugs.” The proceedings, held in The Hague, mark a pivotal moment in a case that has drawn international scrutiny and sparked protests in the Philippines. The ICC is examining whether crimes against humanity were committed between November 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019, a period encompassing Duterte’s time as mayor of Davao City and his presidency.
The core of the investigation centers around the “Davao Death Squad” (ICC), a vigilante group allegedly responsible for extrajudicial killings. Duterte, who served as president from 2016 to 2022, is suspected of involvement in these killings, as well as those that occurred during his nationwide anti-drug campaign. The ICC is specifically considering three counts of crimes against humanity: murder, attempted murder, and persecution. The hearings this week will determine if the investigation should proceed to a full trial.
A Contentious Investigation
The ICC’s involvement in the Philippines has been fraught with controversy. The Philippines, under Duterte, initially withdrew from the ICC in 2019, arguing that the court lacked jurisdiction. Still, the ICC maintains that it has jurisdiction over crimes committed whereas the Philippines was a member, from 2011 to 2019. The Associated Press reports that prosecutors will present evidence detailing Duterte’s alleged involvement in dozens of killings.
Monday saw demonstrations both in support of and opposition to the ICC investigation. In Quezon City, Philippines, families of victims and activists gathered to watch a live stream of the hearings, holding signs calling for Duterte to be held accountable.
What the ICC is Examining
The ICC’s investigation isn’t simply about the number of deaths, but the systematic nature of the killings and whether they constituted crimes against humanity. Prosecutors allege that the “war on drugs” was not a legitimate law enforcement operation, but rather a policy that encouraged and facilitated extrajudicial killings. Al Jazeera reports that the hearings will focus on establishing the extent of Duterte’s knowledge and involvement in these alleged crimes.
Duterte’s Alleged Role in the Davao Death Squad
Before becoming president, Duterte served as mayor of Davao City for over two decades. During this time, the Davao Death Squad gained notoriety for targeting suspected criminals. The ICC investigation alleges that Duterte was not only aware of the DDS’s activities but actively encouraged and directed them. The court is examining evidence linking Duterte to the killings as early as 2011. According to the ICC website, Duterte is alleged to have been the founder and head of the DDS at the time of the relevant conduct.
The “War on Drugs” and its Aftermath
Upon becoming president in 2016, Duterte launched a nationwide “war on drugs” that resulted in the deaths of thousands of people. Official figures estimate that over 6,000 people were killed in police operations, but human rights groups believe the actual number is much higher, potentially exceeding 30,000. Critics accuse the Duterte administration of turning a blind eye to extrajudicial killings carried out by police, and vigilantes. The ICC investigation seeks to determine whether these killings constituted a widespread or systematic attack against a civilian population, a key element in defining crimes against humanity.
What Happens Next?
The pretrial hearings, which began on February 23, 2026, are scheduled to last four days. Prosecutors will present evidence and witnesses to support their case. The hearings will also allow victims and their families to present their testimonies. Following the hearings, the ICC judges will decide whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed to a full trial. If a trial is ordered, it could grab years to complete. The ICC has no police force of its own and relies on the cooperation of member states to arrest suspects.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for international criminal justice and accountability for human rights abuses. It also sets a precedent for the ICC’s ability to investigate and prosecute leaders accused of crimes against humanity, even when their countries have withdrawn from the court’s jurisdiction.
What we have is a developing story, and time.news will continue to provide updates as the ICC hearings progress. If you or someone you know has been affected by the violence in the Philippines, resources are available. You can uncover support and information from organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice.
