Families and survivors of the Philippines’ bloody drug war can still take part in the crimes against humanity case against former President Rodrigo Duterte, even as hearings move forward at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
ICC-accredited lawyer Joel Butuyan explained in an interview with Super Radyo dzBB on Monday that the window for applications remains open despite the trial’s progress.
“Even after ng pre-trial, kahit na ongoing na ‘yung trial, pwe-pwede pa rin mag-apply for participation ‘yung mga victims. Ongoing ‘yan,” Butuyan said. He clarified that victims’ full involvement is most crucial during the reparations phase, should the accused be convicted. “Ito ‘yung na convict na ‘yung akusado and then pag-uusapan na ‘yung danyos na ia-award sa mga biktima,” he added.
The statement came after court documents showed 303 drug war victims had sought to join the pre-trial proceedings. Applicants were grouped into clusters A, B, and C, with Butuyan noting that those under Groups A and B were seen by the Victims Participation and Reparations Section as more likely to qualify. Still, he stressed that the pre-trial chamber has the final authority.
Duterte’s confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled on September 23, 2025. The ICC chamber is expected to decide whether the case will proceed to trial, be sent back for more investigation, or be dismissed entirely.
Government data recorded over 6,000 deaths linked to anti-drug operations during Duterte’s presidency. Human rights groups, however, insist the true toll could be as high as 30,000, citing thousands of unreported killings.
