THE International Criminal Court (ICC) is set to open the confirmation of charges hearing on Monday at 5 p.m. Manila time against former president Rodrigo Duterte in connection with alleged crimes against humanity tied to his administration’s anti-drug campaign.
According to the court’s schedule, Pre-Trial Chamber I will formally read the charges. Duterte will not attend the four-day proceedings after the chamber approved his request to waive his right to be present.
Following the reading of charges, opening statements will be presented by the ICC Prosecutor, the common legal representatives of the victims (CLRVs), and Duterte’s defense team.
The prosecution is expected to outline its evidence and legal arguments in support of the case.
POSSIBLE OUTCOMES
At the conclusion of the confirmation hearing, the Pre-Trial Chamber may:
- Decline to confirm the charges, without barring the prosecution from filing a new request based on additional evidence;
- Adjourn the proceedings and instruct the prosecution to present further evidence, conduct more investigation, or amend the charges; or
- Confirm the charges and commit the case to trial. If confirmed, the court’s Presidency will form a Trial Chamber to handle the next phase of proceedings.
Hearings are scheduled to continue on February 24, 26, and 27.
ALLEGATIONS AND NAMED INDIVIDUALS
The ICC Prosecutor has accused Duterte of involvement in 49 incidents of murder and attempted murder during the anti-narcotics operations.
Prosecutors noted that the actual number of victims during the covered period may be significantly higher.
The court has also identified several alleged co-perpetrators said to have been part of a “common plan” to neutralize suspected criminals through violent means. Those named include:
- Ronald dela Rosa
- Bong Go
- Vitaliano Aguirre II
- Vicente Danao
- Camilo Cascolan (deceased)
- Oscar Albayalde
Government data show that approximately 6,200 drug suspects were killed in police operations during Duterte’s term.
However, human rights organizations estimate the death toll could reach up to 30,000, citing alleged unreported and vigilante-linked killings.