ICC welcomes Duterte’s arrest, prepares for initial court appearance

 ICC Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan.-ICC photo

DAVAO CITY  – The International Criminal Court (ICC) Office of the Prosecutor has welcomed the arrest and transfer of former Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to its custody following his detention by Philippine authorities on March 11, 2025. Duterte, who is facing charges of crimes against humanity, including murder, is now set to appear before the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber to begin legal proceedings.

According to  ICC Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan, Duterte is being held accountable for his alleged role in the widespread and systematic killings linked to the Davao Death Squad (DDS) during his tenure as Mayor of Davao City and later, as President of the Philippines.

The ICC has cited reasonable grounds to believe that he was a key figure in orchestrating extrajudicial killings as part of his administration’s controversial war on drugs from November 1, 2011, to March 16, 2019.

On March 7, 2025, ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I issued an arrest warrant against Duterte for murder as a crime against humanity, determining that the case falls within the jurisdiction of the Court as the alleged crimes occurred while the Philippines was still a State Party to the Rome Statute.

Prosecutor Khan emphasized that Duterte’s arrest marks an essential step in the pursuit of justice for victims of extrajudicial killings.

The ICC thanked Philippine authorities for cooperating in upholding international accountability mechanisms and acknowledged the Netherlands’ support in facilitating Duterte’s transfer.

“This is a crucial step in ensuring accountability for the victims of the most serious crimes under ICC jurisdiction,” the Office stated.

The ICC Office of the Prosecutor is now preparing for Duterte’s initial court appearance, where: The Chamber will confirm his identity and determine the language in which he will follow proceedings.

He will be officially informed of the charges against him. His rights under the Rome Statute will be outlined. The ICC has also encouraged victims, witnesses, and those with relevant information to continue cooperating in the investigation through its Witness Appeal portal.

Duterte in ICC custody for crimes against humanity

The ICC confirmed that its investigation into the situation in the Philippines remains ongoing. The Office of the Prosecutor continues to engage with Philippine authorities, international organizations, civil society, and affected communities to ensure a comprehensive and fair judicial process.

As Duterte prepares to stand trial at The Hague, global attention remains fixed on the case, which is expected to have significant implications for international justice, human rights, and the Philippines’ legal and political landscape.