The International Criminal Court (ICC) continues to lay out the case against former President Rodrigo Duterte, asserting that his drug war has systematically targeted the poor and resulted in the deaths of children. According to the prosecution, the pattern of the operation is clear where whenever the former president names someone, it ends in death. The ICC lawyer emphasized that the statements and directives of the former leader allegedly had an immediate and violent impact on the entire country.
One of the cases cited was the death of Rolando Espinosa Sr., who was on the so-called “narco list.” Despite surrendering to authorities, he was killed in prison. The prosecution insisted that it was not only political opponents who were being targeted but particularly the poor, because they were more fearful and less likely to file complaints. The alleged “copy-paste” police reports were also described, where the narrative was consistent that the suspect resisted and a gun and drugs were recovered at the scene.
The hearing also highlighted the impact of the campaign on minors, including the case of Kian Delos Santos, who became a symbol of public anger. According to the prosecution, although the operation was temporarily halted after intense public criticism, the killings resumed a few months later, and children were again allegedly involved. Testimony was also presented regarding the alleged cruel methods used against minors and the allegation that some bodies were sold to funeral homes for profit—an allegation that added weight to the charges.
In summary, the ICC asserted that the anti-drug campaign was not just a simple law enforcement initiative but a broad and systematic operation that allegedly had a clear target and pattern. As the court process continues, accountability, human rights, and the long-term impact of the campaign on Philippine society remain at the center of the issue.
