MANILA—The International Criminal Court Pre-Trial Chamber I on Monday commenced the confirmation of charges hearings in the case against former President Rodrigo Duterte over killings linked to his war on drugs.

The ICC Prosecutor has charged Duterte with three counts of crimes against humanity, including murder and attempted murder, allegedly committed during the implementation of his anti-narcotics campaign.

“I would like to remind the public that the charges… comprise allegations raised by the Office of the Prosecutor. That the chamber shall decide, that shall analyze in order to decide whether the evidence presented by the OCP is sufficient for these charges to be confirmed,” said Presiding Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc.

Under Count 1, the alleged killings were carried out by members of the Davao Death Squad (DDS) in and around Davao City between 2013 and 2016 while Duterte was mayor and head of the DDS. This count involves 19 victims, including three children, who were labeled as criminals.

Count 2 covers 14 alleged murders by members of a so-called “National Network” across the Philippines during Duterte’s presidency from 2016 to 2017, targeting individuals classified as “high-value targets.”

Count 3 alleges murders and attempted murders committed by the National Network nationwide during 2016 to 2018, affecting 45 victims.

“At this stage of pre-trial proceedings, the OGP alleges that Mr. Duterte is responsible for the crimes… the Chamber shall not take any decision with regard to the guilt or innocence of Mr. Duterte during this hearing,” Motoc clarified.

She emphasized that the role of the Chamber at this stage is to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to establish substantial grounds to believe that Duterte committed the alleged crimes.

Motoc noted that if all or part of the charges are confirmed, the case will be referred to trial, where a Trial Chamber will determine Duterte’s innocence or guilt.

Duterte did not attend the hearing and was represented by his legal team, including Atty. Nicholas Kaufman. Filipino lawyers Salvador Medialdea, Martin Delgra, Silvestro Bello III, Alfredo Lim, Cesar Dulay, and Salvador Panelo were also present to express support.

The next hearings are scheduled for February 24, 26, and 27.