Duterte appears at ICC for crimes against humanity trial

The 79-year-old former leader appeared before judges at The Hague to address allegations that he orchestrated or permitted extrajudicial killings and crimes against humanity during his presidency from 2016 to 2022. The case centres on the anti-narcotics campaign that resulted in thousands of deaths, many of which human rights organizations have characterized as unlawful killings carried out by police and vigilantes with government sanction. Duterte has previously denied wrongdoing, characterizing the drug war as a legitimate public safety initiative aimed at combating a serious criminal problem in the Philippines. The ICC investigation began in 2021 following a preliminary examination of allegations that security forces killed thousands of suspected drug users and dealers with apparent official tolerance. Legal observers noted that the appearance marks a significant moment in the high-profile case, as it was Duterte's first physical presence at the tribunal since the investigation commenced. The proceedings are expected to continue over coming months as the court examines evidence and hears arguments from prosecutors and the defence regarding the nature and extent of alleged crimes.