The evidence against former President Rodrigo Duterte is sufficient, according to Kristina Conti, one of the lawyers for the victims' families at the ICC. She clarified that the invitation to other possible victims of the drug war to participate is not due to a lack of witnesses or evidence.
“The investigation in the Philippines is ongoing and there is sufficient evidence,” Conti said. He said applications from victims who wish to participate in the ICC process are still open until August 3, 2025.
Conti also pointed out that there is a difference between a victim as a witness and a victim as a participant in the process. Under ICC policy, victims can participate to express their views and requests, even if they are not witnesses.
Currently, the victims are represented by the Office of Public Counsel for the Victims while a single legal representative is still being sought for them.
Duterte remains detained in The Hague after his arrest in March this year.
