Families of Philippine drug war victims seek ICC justice as Duterte trial looms

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Agence France-PresseFebruary 20, 2026 at 02:11 PM

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Families of victims of the Philippine drug war are seeking justice at the International Criminal Court (ICC) as a hearing begins Monday to determine if former President Rodrigo Duterte will stand trial for alleged extrajudicial killings. The ICC is investigating at least 76 deaths linked to Duterte's anti-drug campaign. Families, aided by groups like Father Flavie Villanueva's non-profit, are exhuming bodies to gather potential evidence. While victims' families hoped Duterte would appear in person, ICC judges ruled he could waive his right to attend the hearing. The hearing marks a significant step for families seeking accountability for the thousands of deaths that occurred during Duterte's presidency.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Reuters 30% Manila 60% Father Flavie Villanueva ×270% Mary Ann Pajo 70% Philippine drug war 80% Joewarski Pajo ×380% Philippine ×280% International Criminal Court ×290% Rodrigo Duterte ×590%

Keywords

philippine drug war 100% international criminal court 90% rodrigo duterte 90% extrajudicial killings 80% trial 70% victims 60% forensic pathologist 50% icc hearing 50% impunity 40%