Duterte refuses to attend ICC pre-trial hearing, as former Philippine leader’s ‘drug war’ case begins

The Guardian World

by Rebecca Ratcliffe

February 23, 2026

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Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has refused to attend a pre-trial hearing at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands, where he faces charges of crimes against humanity related to his controversial "drug war" during his tenure. The 80-year-old leader, who was arrested in Manila and transferred to The Hague last year, is accused of orchestrating a campaign that led to thousands of deaths, including suspected drug users, dealers, and criminals. This case marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of international justice for human rights violations committed during Duterte's presidency. The ICC's investigation into Duterte's alleged role began in 2021 after a group of victims and human rights organizations filed a complaint accusing him of masterminding a state-sponsored campaign of violence. The pre-trial hearing, set to begin on Monday, will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a full trial. Despite the global attention surrounding the case, Duterte has consistently dismissed the ICC's jurisdiction, claiming that the court lacks authority over his actions as a former head of state. He has also denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that his drug war was a legitimate effort to combat crime and protect public safety. The case has sparked intense political and legal debates both in the Philippines and internationally. Duterte's supporters argue that his anti-drug policies significantly reduced crime rates and restored order during his presidency. However, critics highlight the extrajudicial killings linked to the campaign, which have been widely documented by human rights groups. The ICC's involvement has drawn mixed reactions from the Philippine government, with officials expressing frustration over what they see as foreign interference in domestic affairs. This case not only raises important questions about the role of international law in holding leaders accountable for mass violence but also underscores the ongoing challenges of addressing human rights abuses committed by state actors. As the proceedings unfold, the outcome could set a precedent for how the ICC handles similar cases involving high-ranking officials and their involvement in large-scale atrocities. For

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/23/2026