In late February 2026, the International Criminal Court (ICC) convened in The Hague to consider pretrial arguments regarding alleged crimes against humanity associated with Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial “war on drugs.”

The court reviewed a disturbing collection of 49 incidents involving 78 victims from the period spanning 2011 to 2019, reflecting the intense scrutiny on the Philippine government’s actions during this tumultuous time.

The proceedings represent a significant, albeit rare, opportunity for accountability for the victims and their families. Yet, the implications of the Philippines’ withdrawal from the ICC in 2019 pose a complex challenge to the pursuit of justice.

With domestic prosecutions remaining notably inadequate, the path to real justice demands not only the involvement of The Hague but also a robust overhaul within the Philippines itself.

This encompasses critical steps such as effective prosecutions, a thorough reform of law enforcement institutions, and a re-engagement with international accountability mechanisms if there is to be any hope for lasting transformation.

As discussions unfold in The Hague and beyond, the intersection of international and domestic efforts will be pivotal in addressing the legacy of Duterte’s administration and ensuring that justice is not just a distant promise but a tangible reality.

Sources: ICC hearing records, Human Rights Watch, February–March 2026.