ICC took crucial step to ensure accountability for victims of the most serious crimes with arrest of Former Philippine President Duterte
On March 11, 2025, the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced the arrest and transfer of former Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, charged with crimes against humanity (Article 7(1)(a) of the Rome Statute), for murders committed during his anti-drug campaigns from 2011 to 2019.
The Office of the Prosecutor alleges that Mr.Duterte is responsible for orchestrating a large-scale and systematic attacks and crimes against civilians, initially as the founder of the Davao Death Squad, then as Mayor of Davao City, and later as President.
In the arrest warrant issued on 7 March 2025, the Pre-Trial Chamber I found reasonable grounds to charge Rodrigo Duterte with crimes against humanity under the Rome Statute, the ICC’s founding treaty, confirming the Court's jurisdiction.
The arrest of Mr. Duterte marks a significant step in the Office's efforts to seek accountability for alleged crimes committed during the so-called "war on drugs" campaign in the Philippines.
ICC Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan has stated that this marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to ensure accountability for the victims of the most serious crimes under the Court’s jurisdiction. He further confirmed that the Office has begun preparations for the first hearing before the Court, as well as subsequent legal proceedings.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk also welcomed the arrest announcement, calling it a crucial move toward justice for the thousands of victims of killings and abuses. He emphasized that the serious charges against Duterte will now be addressed fairly and independently. In addition, Türk called on the Philippines to rejoin the Rome Statute, which it withdrew from in 2019, highlighting the importance of international legal frameworks in addressing impunity and preventing future violations.
The Office of the Prosecutor conducted this work through the coordinated efforts of its Philippines Unified Team, led by Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang, alongside the newly-established Tracking and Information Fusion Section and other relevant components. It also appreciates the work of Registry and the effective coordination in securing the suspect's arrest.
The Office expresses gratitude to the victims, survivors, witnesses, and activists from the Philippines who have cooperated in the investigation. Their strength and perseverance have made these developments possible. The Office of the Prosecutor encourages those with relevant information to come forward via the Office’s Witness Appeal portal.
The investigation into the Situation in the Philippines continues. The Office aims to work with Philippine authorities on potential cooperation and will continue to rely on national authorities, regional and international organizations, civil society, and affected communities for support in ensuring accountability.