ICC Prosecutor Charges Philippine Officials as Co-Perpetrators in Duterte-Era Drug War Killings
The Office of the Prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC) has formally designated Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, Christopher "Bong" Go, and six additional individuals as alleged "co-perpetrators" in the systematic killings carried out under former President Rodrigo Duterte's controversial campaign against illegal drugs. In a court document dated February 13, ICC Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang asserted that the incarcerated former president and his named associates collaboratively engaged in a unified plan or agreement to neutralize perceived criminals across the Philippines.
Key Figures and Their Roles in the Alleged Crimes
Senator Dela Rosa, who served as the inaugural chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) under Duterte's administration, has notably avoided public appearances since the Senate session resumed in November 2025. His disappearance followed widespread media reports indicating his inclusion on an arrest warrant list. On January 21, during his 64th birthday celebration, Dela Rosa posted a Facebook update affirming his well-being and expressing anticipation for justice to prevail, while maintaining a posture of patience, calmness, and dignity.
Beyond Dela Rosa and Go, the other individuals named in the ICC document include former Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre III, alongside Vicente Danao, Camilo Cascolan, Oscar Albayalde, Dante Gierran, and Isidro Lapeña. The prosecution's list also encompasses several unnamed members of the PNP and high-ranking government officials, broadening the scope of alleged involvement.
Prosecution Details the Alleged Criminal Structure and Expansion
According to the ICC prosecution, Duterte, Go, and various law enforcement officials utilized police forces from Davao City and non-police hitmen, including the notorious Davao Death Squad (DDS), to execute alleged criminals during Duterte's tenure as mayor from June 30, 2013, to June 30, 2016. As mayor, Duterte was described as the central authority commanding the entire police structure and city governance, exercising direct control over PNP units in Davao, City Hall personnel, and barangay officials allegedly complicit or cooperative in the crimes.
The prosecution further detailed that barangay handlers and police officers were accused of directing DDS members to carry out the killings. The alleged co-perpetrators wielded significant power over the perpetrators, who reportedly felt compelled to comply under threat of death if they refused. During Duterte's presidency, the prosecution contends that the named individuals agreed to expand the neutralization plan nationwide, intensifying the campaign's reach and impact.
Legal Accountability and Upcoming Judicial Proceedings
The ICC prosecution has characterized former President Duterte as legally responsible as an indirect co-perpetrator. Although he did not personally commit the murders, he is accused of commanding three major crimes against humanity that occurred in Davao and across the Philippines. Duterte, who was transferred to the ICC Detention Center in The Hague, Netherlands, on March 11, 2025, is scheduled to attend his confirmation hearing on February 23 after being declared fit to stand trial, marking a critical juncture in the international legal proceedings.
