The International Criminal Court (ICC) has confirmed the arrest and transfer of former Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on March 11, 2025. Duterte faces allegations of crimes against humanity, specifically murder, under Article 7(1)(a) of the Rome Statute. These charges stem from his leadership of the Davao Death Squad, his tenure as Mayor of Davao City, and his presidency, during which he allegedly orchestrated a widespread and systematic attack on civilians between November 2011 and March 2019.
The ICC’s Pre-Trial Chamber I issued the arrest warrant on March 7, 2025, citing reasonable grounds to believe Duterte’s criminal responsibility. The Chamber emphasized that the alleged crimes occurred while the Philippines was a State Party to the Rome Statute, ensuring the Court’s jurisdiction over the case.
This arrest marks a significant milestone in the ICC’s investigation into the Philippines’ “war on drugs” campaign. Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang and the Philippines Unified Team have spearheaded the investigation, supported by the newly established Tracking and Information Fusion Section.
The ICC has expressed gratitude to the victims, survivors, and witnesses who have cooperated in the investigation, acknowledging their courage and perseverance. Preparations are now underway for Duterte’s initial appearance and subsequent judicial proceedings at The Hague.
The ICC continues its investigation into the situation in the Philippines, seeking further accountability and cooperation from national authorities and international partners.