Benedict Maravilla

Former president Rodrigo Duterte faced the Pre-Trial Chamber I of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands on March 14 via video link, and has officially been charged with 43 drug-related killings committed under his supervision as Davao City Mayor and the country’s president. 

Photo Courtesy of Philippine Information Agency/ICC.

During Duterte’s first appearance before the ICC, the court specified the crimes of the ex-president which they deemed as “reasonable grounds” for him to be criminally responsible as an “indirect co-perpetrator for the crime against humanity of murder” pursuant to the court rules.

Grounds for Duterte’s crimes that were read by the court officer include the murder of at least 19 persons, allegedly drug pushers or thieves, killed by members of the Davao Death Squad in various locations in or around Davao City, between 2011 and 2016.

The ex-president will also be facing trial for the murder of 24 persons, allegedly drug criminals, killed by or under the supervision of the members of the Philippines law enforcement and external entities within 2016 and 2019.

Presiding Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc of the pre-trial court declared that the date for the confirmation of charges hearing will be on Sep. 23, considering different factors of the proceedings.

“After assessing all factors, including the need for the parties and participants to adequately prepare, as well as Mr. Duterte's rights, including his right to be tried within a reasonable time, the date for the commencement of the confirmation of charges hearing is September the 23rd, 2025,” Motoc said.

As the proceedings continue until the next months, Motoc explained that Duterte has the right to have the time and facilities, as well as free communication with his chosen counsel, as he prepares for his defense.

Duterte is also assured of immediate disclosure of evidence received by the prosecutor, the nature, cause and content of the charges. He is given as well the right to contest the charges against him at the time of the trial.

Motoc also announced that the Chamber will issue a decision on the participation of the victims who are authorized by court law to present their views and concerns against the suspect.

Duterte was arrested on March 11 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and was immediately transported to The Hague, Netherlands.

The Chamber authorized Duterte to attend through video link or “at a distance” as he made a “long journey”, and considering his health conditions.