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ICC: Evidence Strong Enough to Move Duterte Case Forward

The International Criminal Court says there is enough evidence to confirm charges against former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte.

  • Publish date: since a day Reading time: two min read
ICC: Evidence Strong Enough to Move Duterte Case Forward

The legal battle around former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte just moved a step closer to a full trial. Prosecutors at the International Criminal Court (ICC) argued Friday that there are “substantial grounds” to confirm the charges against him and move the case forward.

The confirmation hearing wrapped up with both sides laying out their final arguments. Now, the judges will decide whether the case proceeds to trial.

What the Prosecution Is Saying

During closing statements, ICC senior trial lawyer Julian Nicholls said the defense’s attempts to challenge witness accounts are issues that should be sorted out during a full trial — not at this stage.

According to the prosecution, the current standard is not proving guilt beyond reasonable doubt yet, but showing there is enough evidence to justify moving forward. They insist that threshold has been met.

Prosecutors also pushed back against claims that the term “neutralization” in the anti-drug campaign only meant subduing suspects. They argue there is evidence suggesting it meant “to kill.”

What Duterte Is Accused Of

Duterte is suspected of crimes against humanity, including murder and attempted murder, tied to the anti-illegal drugs campaign during his time as mayor of Davao City and later as president of the Philippines.

Prosecutors accuse him of being criminally responsible through indirect co-perpetration, ordering and inducing acts, as well as aiding and abetting.

The charges cover:

  • Alleged murders in Davao City during his mayoral term

  • Alleged killings of high-value targets during his presidency

  • Alleged murders and attempted murders during village clearance operations

What Happens Next

This hearing was not the trial itself. It was to determine whether enough evidence exists to formally confirm the charges.

The ICC’s Pre-Trial Chamber is expected to issue a decision within 60 days on whether all, some, or none of the charges will move forward to trial.

For now, the spotlight shifts to the judges — and whether this high-profile case advances to its next stage.

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