The International Criminal Court (ICC) is set to issue a ruling on April 22 on whether it has jurisdiction over the case of former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte, marking a crucial step in proceedings linked to his controversial war on drugs.
Duterte’s legal team has challenged the case, arguing that the court lost authority after the Philippines withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2019, while prosecutors insist jurisdiction still applies to alleged crimes committed while the country was a member.
The ICC has accused Duterte of being a central figure in killings linked to the anti-drug campaign, with charges of crimes against humanity focusing on murder as part of a broader pattern of violence.
If the Appeals Chamber upholds jurisdiction, the case may proceed to a decision on whether to confirm charges and move toward a full trial.
Duterte remains in ICC custody in The Hague after his arrest in 2025, with judges previously rejecting requests for interim release due to flight and interference risks.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 22, 2026
