Metro Manila, Philippines – Victims of the Duterte administration’s drug war see renewed hope for justice after the International Criminal Court confirmed charges of crimes against humanity against former president Rodrigo Duterte, their lawyers said.
In a statement, ICC-listed counsels Joel Butuyan and Gilbert Andres described the ruling as a “big step” toward accountability for families of those killed in the anti-drug campaign.
“The victims view the decision as the triumph of their right, under international law, to truth and justice for their murdered loved ones,” they said. They added that the confirmation of charges answers years of prayers for justice.
They said the ruling marks the first milestone for victims seeking accountability before the international tribunal, noting that the case sends a strong message that even former heads of state can face prosecution.
“The decision sends a strong message to the international community that the international criminal justice system is working to exact criminal accountability even against a former President,” they added.
Speaking on The Newsmaker, ICC victims’ principal counsel Paolina Massidda said the developments indicated efforts to address impunity and deliver justice.
“I think it signals the fact that the court is here to fight impunity and we are here to deliver justice to victims,” Massidda said.
She described the ruling as an important milestone, particularly after uncertainty over whether the case would proceed following questions on jurisdiction.
“For victims and families there is hope of justice. The pursuit of justice has been very, very long for them already,” she added.
Massidda said preparations for the next phase are now underway, including outreach to victims to explain the process and assist them in applying to participate in the trial.
She said more victims may be allowed to formally join the proceedings, as the court opens applications for participation once the case moves forward.
The ICC will also begin trial preparations, including the disclosure and presentation of evidence, coordination for witnesses, and setting a timetable for hearings.
Massidda said a separate Trial Chamber composed of new judges will be formed to handle the case, while both the prosecution and defense may still seek leave to appeal aspects of the decision before trial formally begins.
She added that victims are hoping for proceedings to begin as soon as possible after years of waiting.
“The victims expectantly await with renewed hope the trial proceedings against Mr. Duterte,” the victims’ lawyers said.
