MANILA – Malacañang welcomed the International Criminal Court (ICC) Pre-Trial Chamber I’s decision to confirm charges of crimes against humanity against former president Rodrigo Duterte, paving the way for a full trial.
Palace Statement on ICC Ruling
In a statement on Thursday, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Philippine government respects the unanimous ruling, which formally commits Duterte’s case to trial. Castro emphasized that this development is a significant step toward accountability, as the confirmation of charges indicates sufficient basis to proceed before the international tribunal.
“We respect the ruling of the ICC that confirms all charges of crimes against humanity against former President Duterte. Justice is what needs to be achieved in these cases,” Castro said.
Fair Trial for Both Sides
Castro noted that both the accused and the victims will benefit from a fair and impartial trial. She stressed the importance of due process, stating that the latest move allows both parties to present their arguments.
“Both parties will benefit from this. Justice for the accused if they are innocent, or justice for the victims if their rights were abused,” she added.
Details of the Charges
The ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I found substantial grounds to believe that Duterte is responsible for crimes against humanity, including murder and attempted murder. According to the decision, these crimes were committed as part of a widespread and systematic attack against a civilian population in the Philippines between November 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019, in the context of the “war on drugs” campaign.
With the confirmation of charges, the case moves to the trial phase, where ICC prosecutors will seek to prove the allegations beyond reasonable doubt, while the defense will have the opportunity to challenge the evidence.
Background of the Case
Duterte is suspected of crimes against humanity for launching the anti-drug war during his tenure as Davao City mayor and later as Philippine president. He has been in detention at the ICC facility in The Hague, Netherlands, since March 12, 2025.
Meanwhile, families and supporters of victims of alleged extrajudicial killings under the Duterte administration’s drug war gathered at the 11th World Scout Jamboree Memorial Rotonda in Quezon City on February 23, 2026. The protest coincided with the first day of Duterte’s pretrial hearing before the ICC.
