The International Criminal Court Pre-Trial Chamber I unanimously ruled that former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte will stand trial after finding substantial grounds that he may be criminally responsible for crimes against humanity.
The charges cover 49 incidents involving killings and attempted murders allegedly linked to the drug war and the Davao Death Squad from 2011 to 2019.
Judges said evidence suggests Duterte helped establish and oversee the DDS and later expanded the alleged operations nationwide during his presidency.
The court also noted that he allegedly ordered lists of drug suspects and provided resources for the commission of the crimes.
Both prosecution and defense reacted strongly, with victims’ lawyers welcoming the ruling while Duterte’s camp and supporters denied the allegations and vowed to challenge the case at trial.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 24, 2026
RODRIGO DUTERTE TO STAND TRIAL AS ICC CONFIRMS CHARGES
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