DUTERTE TRIAL TESTS REACH OF GLOBAL LAW

Philippine ex-president’s defence may aim for acquittal by challenging ICC’s legal basis, not the crimes he is accused of

- BY JAY HILOTIN | Senior Assistant Editor

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte marked his 80th birthday in detention. The former strongman is currently facing charges at the International Criminal Court (ICC). The case against him: alleged “crimes against humanity” related to his administration’s “war on drugs.”

Arrested on March 11, 2025, upon his return to Manila from Hong Kong, Duterte was subsequently transferred to ICC custody on March 12, 2025. His subsequent extradition to The Hague is a significant moment. Duterte, the 16th Philippine president, has become the first Asian former head of state to be detained by the ICC.

The charges stem from Duterte’s alleged involvement in a widespread and systematic campaign targeting individuals suspected of being drug-offenders, both during his presidency (2016 – 2022) and his tenure as mayor of Davao City.

The trial puts the credibility and reach of the ICC on the line — especially after criticism that it disproportionately targets African nations.

The development has ignited a firestorm on social media, with supporters and critics of Duterte locked in heated exchanges.

Duterte’s defence: Key possible points

As of now, specific details regarding Duterte’s defence strategy have not been publicly disclosed.

However, it is anticipated that his legal team may argue the following points: