ICC Hearing: Strong Evidence Against Duterte, Says Victims' Lawyer
THE HAGUE, Netherlands - Legal representatives of victims in the International Criminal Court case against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte expressed confidence that prosecutors have presented compelling evidence to justify proceeding to full trial on crimes against humanity charges.
Attorney Gilbert Andres, representing victims of Duterte's controversial war on drugs, told reporters that the prosecution exceeded the required threshold during the second day of confirmation hearings at the ICC.
Prosecution Case Built on Three Pillars
Andres outlined the prosecution's strategic approach, focusing on three critical elements: demonstrating the devastating impact of the drug war campaign on victims, presenting evidence of Duterte's direct responsibility for the killings, and establishing grounds for proceeding to trial.
"We showed the lived experiences of victims during this anti-drug campaign," Andres explained, emphasizing that their presentation was grounded in documented victim testimonies rather than speculation.
Defense Strategy Criticized as Political Theater
The victims' legal team characterized the defense's opening statement as predominantly political rather than addressing the legal allegations directly. Andres noted that substantive legal arguments occupied only the final seven minutes of what he described as a largely geopolitical presentation.
This approach reflects a concerning trend where serious criminal allegations are deflected through political narratives rather than confronted with evidence-based defenses.
Duterte's Own Words as Evidence
Prosecutors strategically referenced Duterte's own public statements as key evidence, with Andres describing the former president as "exhibit A" in the case. This prosecutorial approach demonstrates how public officials' inflammatory rhetoric can become legally consequential.
The evidence presented suggests substantial grounds exist to believe Duterte committed the charged crimes, according to the victims' representatives.
Jurisdictional Challenges Unlikely to Succeed
Addressing pending jurisdictional challenges before the Appeals Chamber, Andres expressed confidence that such procedural maneuvers rarely succeed based on international criminal tribunal jurisprudence. The confirmation hearings continue regardless of these challenges.
Victims Disappointed by Duterte's Absence
While satisfied that their case was presented before the court, victims expressed disappointment at Duterte's failure to personally attend the proceedings. Though suspects may legally waive appearance, victims had hoped to see him face the charges directly.
This absence underscores questions about accountability and the willingness of former leaders to confront allegations of systematic human rights violations.
Call for Informed Public Engagement
Andres urged citizens to follow proceedings closely and rely on verified information rather than disinformation campaigns. "The truth will set us free," he emphasized, highlighting the importance of transparency in international justice processes.
The case represents a significant test of international criminal law's capacity to address alleged state-sponsored violence, with implications extending far beyond the Philippines to questions of executive accountability worldwide.