Duterte was ‘pivotal’ in murder of thousands, ICC prosecutors say
South China Morning Post
by ReutersFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has been accused by International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutors of playing a central role in the murders of thousands during his tenure, including children, as part of a supposed "war on drugs." The ICC has filed three counts of murder against Duterte, alleging that he funded and armed death squads to target alleged drug users and criminals. This marks a significant step toward holding Duterte accountable for widespread violence tied to his government's anti-drug campaign.
Prosecutors argue that Duterte's policies led to systematic killings on an unprecedented scale, with many victims being innocent civilians. Mame Niang, the ICC prosecutor, emphasized during pre-trial hearings that these cases represent only a fraction of the actual death toll. The allegations include the targeting of vulnerable groups, such as children, further underscoring the severity of the violence.
Duterte's tenure from 2016 to 2022 saw his administration implement harsh anti-drug measures, which he has consistently defended as self-defense against criminal threats. However, these actions have drawn international condemnation for their brutality and lack of accountability. Duterte was arrested in March last year and brought to the ICC in The Hague, where his case is now progressing through the legal process.
This case highlights the global interest in addressing state-sponsored violence and the role of international courts in holding
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/23/2026