Duterte Appears Before ICC in War on Drugs Case, Next Hearing Set for September

PCI

Duterte confirmed who he was during the court session when he learned about the charges against him. (Photo: ICC via PNA)

On Friday, March 14, 2025, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte joined a hearing at the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the first time via video link. This hearing is about his “war on drugs” campaign, which faces accusations of causing crimes against humanity.

Duterte confirmed who he was during the court session when he learned about the charges against him. His lawyer, Salvador Medialdea, was with him. The charges are related to his anti-drug campaign from 2011 to 2019, which led to thousands of deaths during his time in office.

Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc allowed Duterte to join the hearing remotely, considering his long travel from the Philippines to The Hague.

Duterte’s lawyers also argued that his health, including poor eyesight and hearing, made the process unfair. However, the ICC confirmed that Duterte was mentally fit to understand the charges.

The next hearing to decide whether there is enough evidence to proceed with a trial will occur on September 23, 2025.