Duterte’s Fans Rally in The Hague as the I.C.C. Weighs Evidence Against Him

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by Francesca Regalado

February 23, 2026

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Protesters loyal to former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte continue to rally outside the International Criminal Court (ICC) detention center in The Hague, despite his ongoing legal battle for crimes against humanity tied to his controversial drug war. These gatherings highlight Duterte’s enduring influence, even as international prosecutors weigh evidence to determine if he should face trial for the tens of thousands of deaths during his tenure. For nearly a year, Duterte’s supporters, many traveling from across Europe, have assembled every weekend outside Scheveningen Prison in The Hague, where the 80-year-old leader is being held since his arrest in March 2023. They wave Philippine flags, play music, and share meals to show solidarity with their former president, whom they view as a victim of political persecution. Duterte has denied the charges, arguing that the ICC lacks jurisdiction over him. The rallies have gained significant attention, both locally and internationally, through social media and news coverage. Supporters like Aldo Villarta see the protests as a form of sacrifice to stand by someone they believe was wrongfully detained. They argue that if the ICC can target Duterte, a powerful former leader, it could also target ordinary citizens, making the issue one of broader human rights concern. Duterte’s legacy remains deeply tied to his brutal anti-drug campaign, which earned him an 88% approval rating when he left office in 2019. His popularity has also bolstered his daughter, Sara Duterte-Carpio, who won a landslide victory as vice president in 2022 and is seen as a potential presidential candidate in 2028. His supporters view the ICC case as an attempt to undermine the political gains of his administration. The situation underscores the ongoing tensions between international justice and domestic politics, particularly in cases involving former leaders accused

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/23/2026