Former Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte appeared today before Pre-Trial Chamber I of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to face allegations of crimes against humanity, specifically murder. The alleged crimes were committed in the Philippines between November 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019.
During the hearing, the Chamber verified Duterte’s identity and ensured he was fully informed of the charges and his rights under the Rome Statute. Duterte, who is currently in ICC custody, participated via video link from the ICC Detention Centre. His legal representation was led by Salvador C. Medialdea, with support from the Office of Public Counsel for the Defence.
The Chamber has scheduled a confirmation of charges hearing for September 23, 2025. This hearing will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed to trial. If the charges are confirmed, the case will be transferred to a Trial Chamber for the next phase of proceedings.
Background of the Case
The ICC Prosecutor initially applied for an arrest warrant for Duterte on February 10, 2025, accusing him of crimes against humanity, including murder, torture, and rape. After reviewing the evidence, the Chamber found reasonable grounds to believe Duterte bore individual responsibility as an indirect co-perpetrator of murder.
A secret arrest warrant was issued on March 7, 2025, and reclassified as public on March 11. Philippine authorities arrested Duterte on March 12 and subsequently surrendered him to the ICC, where he remains in detention.
While the Philippines withdrew from the ICC on March 17, 2019, the Court retains jurisdiction over crimes committed while the country was still a member. Duterte’s case marks a significant moment in the ICC’s ongoing pursuit of accountability for human rights violations.