By Micah Jonah, February 23, 2026
Prosecutors at the International Criminal Court have told judges that former Philippine President, Rodrigo Duterte was “pivotal” in the killings of thousands of people during his controversial war on drugs, as they pushed for his case to proceed to full trial.
Speaking at the opening of pre trial hearings in The Hague, prosecutors charged Duterte with three counts of murder as crimes against humanity. They argued that the charges, though covering dozens of named victims, represent only a fraction of the alleged deaths linked to his anti drug campaign.
According to the prosecution, Duterte created, funded an armed death squads that targeted suspected drug users and dealers during his presidency from 2016 to 2022. Prosecutor Mame Niang told the court that the so called war on drugs resulted in the deaths of thousands of civilians, including children, and insisted that Duterte must be held accountable.
Under ICC rules, judges must first confirm that there is sufficient evidence before the case can move to trial. A decision is expected within 60 days after hearings conclude.
Duterte’s defence team, led by lawyer Nicholas Kaufman, rejected the allegations, describing them as politically motivated. The former President has maintained his innocence, arguing that his rhetoric was intended to instill fear and respect for the law, not to promote criminal acts. He has long insisted that police were instructed to use lethal force only in self defence.
Duterte, 80, was arrested last March, transferred to The Hague. Although his legal team claimed he would not be able to understand the proceedings due to cognitive decline, ICC judges ruled last month that he is fit to stand trial.
Outside the court building, opponents and human rights activists gathered, calling for accountability. Some victims’ relatives expressed confidence that the charges would be confirmed and that justice would eventually be served.
The outcome of the confirmation hearings will determine whether Duterte faces a full trial at the Hague based court.
