The International Criminal Court (ICC), based in The Hague, Netherlands, announced charges against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, 80, on 22/9. The charges relate to his controversial anti-drug campaign. The 78-page indictment contains redactions to protect sensitive information.

ICC prosecutors have filed three counts of crimes against humanity against Duterte. They allege his involvement in at least 76 deaths during his time as mayor of Davao City from 2013-2016 and as president from 2016-2018.

"The true number of victims during the period under investigation is much higher, reflected in the widespread nature of the drug crackdown," an ICC prosecutor stated.

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in Quezon on 13/11/2024. Photo: Reuters

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in Quezon on 13/11/2024. Photo: Reuters

Duterte was scheduled to appear in court to hear the charges, but the hearing was postponed pending an ICC assessment of his health.

Nicholas Kaufman, a member of Duterte's legal team, said on 11/9 that his client suffers from severe cognitive decline, impacting his memory, mobility, and daily life. Kaufman requested an indefinite postponement of all legal proceedings.

Duterte was arrested at Manila International Airport in March and transferred to the Scheveningen prison in The Hague, Netherlands, to face charges of crimes against humanity. He has consistently denied the legitimacy of the arrest, calling it a "kidnapping."

Philippine police report that Duterte's drug war resulted in over 6,000 deaths, but human rights groups estimate the actual figure to be around 30,000. If convicted, Duterte could face decades in prison.

Nhu Tam (According to AFP)