Overview
- Rodrigo Duterte, former president of the Philippines, will make his first appearance at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 2 PM local time.
- Duterte faces accusations of crimes against humanity stemming from his anti-drug campaign, which human rights groups say resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, including extrajudicial killings.
- The ICC retained jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed before the Philippines' withdrawal from the court in 2019, as well as those linked to the Davao Death Squad during Duterte's tenure as mayor of Davao City.
- Duterte's arrest in Manila follows increasing tensions between his family and the current administration, including a rift with President Ferdinand Marcos and impeachment proceedings against Duterte's daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte.
- Victims' advocacy groups and human rights organizations see Duterte's arrest and trial as a significant milestone for international justice, emphasizing accountability for powerful leaders.