Hearings start in ICC case against Philippines' Duterte: 5 points

Hearings have commenced at the International Criminal Court (ICC) regarding former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who faces three counts of crimes against humanity. These charges stem from allegations that he authorized numerous murders during his administration, particularly in connection with his controversial war on drugs. The ICC prosecutors assert that Duterte was "pivotal" in the murder of thousands, with claims that the actual death toll may be significantly higher than reported (Al Jazeera, Deutsche Welle, South China Morning Post). During the hearings, ICC prosecutor Edward Jeremy presented harrowing testimonies, including allegations that children were murdered in brutal ways, such as being strangled with packing tape. The prosecutor also noted that Duterte publicly named individuals he accused of drug-related offenses, which allegedly contributed to the violence and killings associated with his drug policy (South China Morning Post). The ICC's proceedings have sparked significant debate in the Philippines, where Duterte's family continues to maintain a loyal following among the population of approximately 113 million. The case remains a polarizing issue within the country, reflecting the divided opinions on Duterte's legacy and the impact of his policies (Japan Times). The hearings are part of a broader investigation into the alleged human rights violations that occurred during Duterte's presidency and his tenure as mayor of Davao City (Nikkei Asia, Deutsche Welle).