Former Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is set to make his initial appearance before the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Friday, 14 March 2025, at 14:00 (The Hague local time) before Pre-Trial Chamber I.

Duterte was arrested by Philippine authorities in compliance with an ICC arrest warrant issued under seal on 7 March 2025. He was then surrendered to the ICC’s custody on 12 March 2025.

Charges Against Duterte

The former president is facing accusations of murder, classified as a crime against humanity, allegedly committed in the Philippines between 1 November 2011 and 16 March 2019. During this period, Duterte held multiple positions, including:

• President of the Philippines (2016–2022)

• Mayor of Davao City (various terms from 1988 to 2016)

• Alleged leader of the Davao Death Squad, a vigilante group linked to extrajudicial killings

The charges stem from the ICC’s investigation into thousands of killings related to Duterte’s controversial "War on Drugs" campaign, as well as alleged state-sponsored executions during his tenure as mayor.

ICC Hearing Details

During the initial appearance hearing, the judges will:

• Verify Duterte’s identity

• Determine the language he can use to follow the proceedings

• Inform him of the charges against him and his rights under the ICC Rome Statute

The Pre-Trial Chamber I handling the case is composed of:

• Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc (Presiding Judge)

• Judge Reine Adélaïde Sophie Alapini-Gansou

• Judge María del Socorro Flores Liera

Legal and Political Implications

Duterte’s arrest marks a historic moment for both the Philippines and international justice, as he becomes the first former Filipino head of state to face trial at the ICC. His legal team has yet to issue an official statement, while Philippine officials have remained tight-lipped about the circumstances leading to his arrest.

The ICC’s investigation has been a source of controversy in the Philippines, with Duterte previously dismissing the court’s jurisdiction and even withdrawing the country from the Rome Statute in 2019. However, the court maintained that it retains jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was still a member.

What’s Next?

Duterte’s initial hearing is a procedural step before pre-trial proceedings, where the ICC will determine whether the case will proceed to a full trial. Legal experts anticipate that the prosecution will present key evidence, including testimonies from human rights groups, victims' families, and former government insiders.

Further developments are expected following Duterte’s first official court appearance on 14 March.