Judges at the International Criminal Court have confirmed crimes against humanity charges against former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte, marking a major step toward a full trial over his controversial anti-drug campaign.
In a unanimous decision, a three-judge panel ruled there are “substantial grounds” to believe Duterte was responsible for dozens of killings carried out during his tenure as both mayor of Davao City and later as president from 2016 to 2022. The court found evidence suggesting he developed and implemented a policy aimed at “neutralizing” alleged criminals.
Duterte, 81, was arrested in the Philippines in 2025 and transferred to The Hague, where the ICC is based. He has denied all allegations and has not attended court proceedings, having waived his right to be present. Judges previously ruled he is fit to stand trial despite earlier concerns over his health.
Prosecutors allege that police officers and vigilante groups conducted killings under Duterte’s direction, sometimes incentivized by financial rewards or coercion. Estimates of the death toll during his presidency vary widely, with official police figures citing over 6,000 deaths, while human rights organizations suggest the number could be as high as 30,000.
The ICC described the ruling as a significant milestone in efforts to hold leaders accountable for grave international crimes. However, Duterte’s legal team has strongly criticized the decision, arguing it relies on unverified testimony from individuals they describe as unreliable witnesses.
The case has drawn international attention and sparked emotional reactions in the Philippines. Families of victims have welcomed the development, seeing it as a step toward justice after years of alleged abuses during the anti-drug crackdown.
Human rights advocates have also praised the decision, emphasizing its broader implications for global accountability. They argue the trial could send a strong message that political leaders cannot act with impunity, regardless of their position or influence.
Legal challenges from Duterte’s defense team have so far failed to halt proceedings. Appeals judges recently rejected arguments that the ICC lacks jurisdiction following the Philippines’ withdrawal from the court in 2019, a move widely seen as an attempt to avoid scrutiny.
The trial date has not yet been set, but the confirmation of charges brings Duterte closer to becoming one of the few former heads of state to stand trial before the ICC for crimes against humanity.