The International Criminal Court (ICC) officially commenced public hearings today in The Hague regarding charges of crimes against humanity brought against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. The proceedings focus on the thousands of alleged extrajudicial killings that occurred during his administration’s controversial "war on drugs" between 2016 and 2022. This marks a landmark moment for international justice and human rights advocacy in Southeast Asia.

During the opening session, prosecutors detailed evidence from witnesses and families of victims who claim that police operations often involved state-sanctioned executions rather than legitimate law enforcement. Duterte, who withdrew the Philippines from the Rome Statute during his presidency, has consistently denied the ICC's jurisdiction over him and refused to acknowledge the legitimacy of the court's investigation.

In the Philippines, the start of the hearings has reignited intense political debate. Supporters of the former president argue that the drug war was necessary for national security, while human rights groups like Amnesty International have hailed the hearings as a step toward accountability. The ICC proceedings are expected to last for several months as the court reviews extensive documentation and testimony.