Preparations for the judicial proceedings and trial of former President Rodrigo Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court (ICC) are now underway, the tribunal confirmed.
The ICC said there are “reasonable grounds to believe that Mr. Duterte bears criminal responsibility for the crime against humanity of murder.”
Recognizing the gravity of accountability and justice for the victims, the international tribunal urged individuals with relevant information to come forward as witnesses.
“The Office is now commencing preparations towards the initial appearance and subsequent judicial proceedings before the Court,” the ICC said in a statement.
“The Office wishes to thank all the victims, survivors, witnesses, and activists from the Philippines who have stepped forward to cooperate in the Office’s investigation. Their strength, courage, and perseverance make these significant developments possible. Those who wish to further cooperate or who have relevant information are encouraged to do so via the Office’s Witness Appeal portal,” it added.
Despite the Philippines no longer being a member of the ICC, it reaffirmed its commitment to working with affected communities in the country.
“The Office has been able to conduct this work through the coordinated efforts of its Philippines Unified Team. The Office is also grateful for the work of the Registry and the effective coordination of efforts to secure the arrest of the suspect,” the ICC said.
The tribunal hailed Duterte’s arrest as a crucial step in the pursuit of accountability for alleged crimes committed under his administration’s “war on drugs” campaign.
The ICC said that based on its independent and impartial investigations, the Office of the Prosecutor holds the former president accountable for crimes against humanity, specifically murder under Article 7(1)(a) of the Rome Statute—the treaty that established the tribunal.
The allegations stem from his role as the founder and leader of the Davao Death Squad during his tenure as Davao City mayor and his presidency.
According to the ICC, these crimes were committed in the Philippines between November 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019, as part of a widespread and systematic attack targeting the civilian population.
“In the warrant of arrest issued on 7 March 2025, Pre-Trial Chamber I determined that there are reasonable grounds to believe that Mr. Duterte bears criminal responsibility for the crime against humanity of murder,” it added.
According to the ICC, the case against Duterte falls within its jurisdiction, as the alleged crimes occurred while the Philippines was still a State Party to the Rome Statute.