THE HAGUE, NETHERLANDS — The confirmation of charges hearing against former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte before Pre-Trial Chamber I of the International Criminal Court (ICC) concluded on February 27, 2026, bringing the case a step closer to a decision on whether it will proceed to trial.
Judges heard the final oral submissions from the Prosecution, the common legal representatives of the victims, and the Defense before closing the proceedings. Duterte waived his right to attend the hearing.
The chamber will now deliberate and is expected to issue a written decision within 60 days.
At this stage, the judges will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to establish substantial grounds to believe that Duterte committed crimes against humanity, including murder and attempted murder, allegedly carried out between November 1, 2011 and March 16, 2019 in connection with the anti-drug campaign.
If the charges are confirmed, the case will be transferred to a Trial Chamber for full proceedings. If not, the chamber may decline to confirm the charges or direct the Prosecutor to submit additional evidence.
| Written by Andrew Matthew Ortoño
