International Criminal Court takes 1st step in probe into Duterte drug war

By Lian Buan and Jodesz Gavilan

MANILA, Philippines – The International Criminal Court (ICC) is moving on the complaint filed against President Rodrigo Duterte in connection with the high number of killings under his violent war on drugs. The ICC is starting "preliminary examinations" to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to establish that the case falls under its jurisdiction. Malacañang confirmed this on Thursday, February 8. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made the announcement in a press briefing on Thursday morning, and said that Duterte welcomed the move. "The President and I met about this extensively for two hours last night. The President welcomes the preliminary examination because he is sick and tired of being accused," Roque said. The Palace official said that if the complaint would prosper, Duterte would be willing to face the ICC. The preliminary examination are the first step in the ICC's prosecution process. The ICC is the world's first treaty-based permanent international criminal court that aims to end impunity. It investigates serious crimes including genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and crimes of aggression.