ICC Sets November 2026 Trial for Former Philippine President Over Alleged Drug War Crimes

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has scheduled the trial of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to commence on 30 November 2026, marking a significant moment in international criminal justice. The proceedings will be one of the rare instances in which a former head of state stands trial before the ICC for alleged crimes against humanity arising from actions taken during and prior to his presidency.

The prosecution intends to call approximately 60–70 witnesses and will pursue three counts of crimes against humanity murder, torture, and rape. The charges relate to alleged extrajudicial killings and abuses committed between November 2011 and March 2019, covering Duterte’s tenure as Mayor of Davao City and later as President of the Philippines. Prosecutors contend that a systematic anti-drug campaign, often referred to as the “Davao model,” evolved into a nationwide policy that resulted in widespread violence against suspected drug offenders.

The case is grounded in Article 7(1) of the Rome Statute, which criminalizes widespread or systematic attacks directed against civilian populations. Although the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019, the Court maintains jurisdiction over crimes allegedly committed while the country was a State Party under Article 127 of the Statute.

Duterte has remained in ICC custody in The Hague since his arrest and transfer in March 2025. Before trial begins, the Court has ordered a fresh medical evaluation to determine his fitness to participate. The proceedings are expected to test the ICC’s ability to hold former national leaders accountable for alleged human rights violations on a global stage.