By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutors have charged former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte with three counts of crimes against humanity for his role in the “war on drugs.” The charge sheet details accusations that Duterte designed and implemented a policy to “neutralize” alleged criminals, allegedly including the induction of hitmen, the provision of weapons, and incentives for killings. The charges specifically cite 76 murders between 2011 and 2019, although the prosecution asserts the actual number of victims was significantly higher. Duterte, who has been in ICC detention since March, is accused of directing killings during his time as mayor of Davao City and later as president, with court documents detailing his alleged involvement and actions, including his public statements that incited violence.
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Rodrigo Duterte, former Philippines president, charged with crimes against humanity at ICC, and here we are, talking about the potential consequences of actions that were, let’s be honest, broadcast for all the world to see. This isn’t some secret conspiracy; we’re talking about a former president who, by all accounts, made it a point to be very clear about his intentions. Ordering, and perhaps even celebrating, the extrajudicial killings of suspected criminals, often in front of cameras, doesn’t exactly scream “innocence.” Who would have guessed that such actions might lead to, well, this?
Poor guy, you might say sarcastically, though that would be the understatement of the century. The Philippines under Duterte’s leadership was often compared to a low-budget, incredibly violent 1970s B-movie. The idea that simply shooting people on the spot, without any semblance of a trial, is somehow a legitimate form of law enforcement is mind-boggling. And now, the International Criminal Court, or ICC, is taking notice. One can only imagine the relief, or perhaps satisfaction, felt by those who spoke out against his regime. Maria Ressa, a journalist who has faced her own share of persecution, certainly has cause to celebrate. It’s natural to think this might open the door for others, too.
So, what’s his defense going to be? “I don’t remember?” “It was just a joke?” Perhaps, “I’m too ill to stand trial?” These are all common, frankly pathetic, defenses. The fact that he allegedly took steps to eliminate marginalized segments is, well, telling. It’s hardly surprising that he’s facing scrutiny and possible repercussions. And, given the apparent lack of remorse or responsibility, the situation makes you wonder about other leaders who might be taking notes.
One thing that’s quite clear is that the rule of law needs to be restored and upheld, regardless of who’s in power. The idea of limiting him to only communicating by ringing a tiny bell is a rather whimsical, yet fitting, thought. Unfortunately, the Philippines has seen its fair share of corrupt politicians getting away with similar things in the past, often due to a culture of dramatic displays and easy forgiveness. But in this instance, the stakes are much higher.
The mere fact that the ICC is pushing forward with an investigation is significant. This type of action would likely never have gained traction within the Philippines itself, especially given the current political landscape. The ICC, as we know, has the authority to detain people awaiting trial, and if convicted, they are sent to European prisons to serve their sentences.
It’s important to remember that the United States is not a member of the ICC. If the US were to sign the Rome Statute, things might be different. However, as it stands, the situation is more complicated. The potential for a precedent to be set is there, however. There’s a case of a former leader that faked being senile and got away with it in court.
Many Filipinos still seem to support Duterte and genuinely believe he is the victim of an injustice. Adding to the complexity, his son, Sebastian, is a rising figure in Davao, a city where Duterte’s brutal policies were first implemented. And if that wasn’t enough, the current president is Bongbong Marcos, the son of the country’s most notorious dictator. It’s a stark reminder of how powerful personality cults and historical legacies can be in shaping political outcomes.
The whole situation really highlights the power of the ICC, to provide a process that is unavailable in the Philippines. We have a system that’s working. The fact that the ICC is taking this seriously sends a powerful message. And, as someone rightly pointed out, the fact that Putin hardly leaves Russia is a notable detail. Perhaps this illustrates a kind of self-imposed exile.