Senator Bong Go Stands with Duterte as ICC Confirmation Hearing Commences
Long-time political ally Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has publicly voiced his support for former President Rodrigo Duterte as the International Criminal Court (ICC) began its confirmation of charges hearing on February 23, 2026. The proceedings, which will continue through February 27, mark a critical phase in determining whether Duterte will face trial for alleged crimes against humanity.
Go's Message of Support and Calm
In a message released ahead of the hearing, Senator Go urged Filipinos to remain calm and trust the judicial process while praying for Duterte's strength, health, and legal defense. "In the scheduled confirmation hearing of former President Rodrigo Duterte at the International Criminal Court, I sincerely pray for his courage, peace of mind, and good health," Go stated. "May the Lord grant wisdom and guidance to his legal team to skillfully defend Tatay Digong... Let us pray for the health, safety, and freedom of Tatay Digong."
The Confirmation Hearing Process
The four-day hearing before Pre-Trial Chamber I in The Hague will assess whether there are "substantial grounds to believe" that Duterte is responsible for crimes against humanity. This standard determines whether the case proceeds to a full trial. Judges will have up to 60 days after the hearings conclude to make their decision.
Although not a trial itself, this confirmation stage allows the ICC's Office of the Prosecutor to outline its case and for the defense to respond. The court will then decide whether the evidence presented is sufficient to warrant proceeding to trial.
Duterte's Absence and Legal Representation
The 80-year-old former president will not be physically present at the hearing. The ICC granted his request to waive personal appearance, a decision opposed by prosecutors and legal representatives of alleged victims. Instead, his defense team of Filipino and international lawyers will represent him and present legal arguments.
Before the hearing began, the ICC also barred in-person family visits for Duterte, who has been detained at the court's facility in The Hague since March 2025. His family confirmed he can still communicate by phone with relatives while the hearings are in session.
Charges and Allegations
The charges against Duterte stem from alleged acts committed during his tenure as mayor of Davao City and later as president of the Philippines, particularly linked to the government's controversial "war on drugs." The ICC's Document Containing the Charges accuses him of overseeing a "widespread and systematic attack" against civilians and cites 49 incidents involving 78 named victims, including murder and attempted murder.
According to Philippine police data, approximately 6,200 deaths in anti-drug operations occurred during Duterte's presidency. However, human rights groups and ICC prosecutors suggest the actual toll could be significantly higher, possibly numbering in the tens of thousands.
Hearing Structure and Potential Outcomes
During the hearing, the Prosecutor will present arguments and evidence outlining its case, followed by responses from Duterte's legal team. The common legal representatives of victims are also expected to make submissions during the sessions scheduled for February 23, 24, 26, and 27.
Legal observers note that if the judges confirm one or more charges, the next phase—a full trial—will be set before a Trial Chamber. If they find the evidence lacking, the charges could be dismissed or sent back for further investigation.
Historical Context and Jurisdictional Dispute
The confirmation hearing marks the most high-profile international judicial review involving a former Philippine president, nearly nine years after the initial complaint was filed with the ICC in June 2017.
Duterte's refusal to recognize ICC jurisdiction and decision to skip the proceedings reflect his longstanding position that the tribunal has no authority over actions taken by a sovereign head of state. This position persists despite the court's maintained jurisdiction for alleged crimes committed prior to the Philippines' withdrawal from the Rome Statute in 2019.
Support and Political Implications
Currently, supporters of Duterte, including political allies and groups in The Hague, plan to maintain a visible presence during the hearing week. This signals continued domestic backing as international legal scrutiny proceeds, highlighting the ongoing political divisions surrounding the former president's legacy and legal challenges.
