Duterte Faces ICC Pre-Trial Hearing Amidst Allegations of Crimes Against Humanity

The International Criminal Court (ICC) commenced its confirmation of charges hearing on Monday, February 23, 2026, for former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, despite his refusal to attend the proceedings. Duterte is accused of crimes against humanity related to the thousands of deaths that occurred during his administration’s controversial “war on drugs.”

Duterte’s Arrest and Initial Appearance

Rodrigo Duterte was surrendered to the ICC in March 2025 following the issuance of a warrant for his arrest by Pre-Trial Chamber I. He made his first appearance before the Chamber on March 14, 2025, at which time the confirmation of charges hearing was scheduled International Criminal Court.

Refusal to Attend and Claims of Frailty

Duterte, 80, announced last week that he would not participate in the pre-trial hearing, citing his age, fatigue, and memory loss. He has dismissed the allegations of overseeing a policy of extrajudicial killings as “an outrageous lie” and questioned the ICC’s jurisdiction The Guardian.

Victims’ Reactions

Families of victims have expressed frustration and accused Duterte of cowardice. Sarah Celiz, whose two sons were killed in 2017, stated, “He should face everything he did to us and to the families of the [other] victims.” Llore Pasco, whose two sons were also killed during the anti-drug operations, called Duterte “just a coward desperate to escape accountability” The Guardian.

ICC Ruling on Attendance

Judges granted Duterte’s defense request to waive his attendance, but noted the reasons provided were “speculative.” The court had previously ruled that Duterte was fit to attend hearings, rejecting claims of cognitive impairment The Guardian.

The Scope of the Investigation

The ICC investigation covers alleged crimes committed from November 2011 to March 16, 2019 – including alleged extrajudicial killings in Davao City and throughout the Philippines during Duterte’s presidency. The Philippines withdrew from the ICC in March 2019 International Criminal Court.

Confirmation of Charges Hearing Details

The pre-trial hearing, running from February 23 to 27, will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to establish “substantial grounds” to believe Duterte committed the charges of murder and attempted murder. A written decision will be issued within 60 days. If the charges are confirmed, the case will proceed to trial The Manila Times.

Victim Participation

The ICC proceedings include the participation of 539 victims, who are represented in the hearings. While their statements do not constitute formal evidence at this stage, they contribute to the judges’ understanding of the human impact of the alleged crimes The Manila Times.

Political Implications

Duterte’s daughter, current Vice President Sara Duterte, is expected to be a strong contender in the 2028 presidential election. Some families of victims fear potential retaliation should she be elected The Guardian.