ICC pre-trial Day 3: ‘Duterte’s public statements should be considered with other evidence’

MANILA, Philippines – Ahead of the third day of former president Rodrigo Duterte’s confirmation of charges hearing at the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Thursday, February 26, National Union of People’s Lawyers president Ephraim Cortez said that public statements made by Rodrigo Duterte during his time as mayor and president should be considered alongside other evidence rather than in isolation.

Cortez emphasized that these drug war statements gain significance when examined together with official documents and actions that followed. He also criticized the defense strategy of Nicholas Kaufman, noting that his opening statement seemed aimed more at public opinion than the court.

“They are trying to destroy the credibility of the witnesses, of the court, and even that of the prosecution,” Cortez said during a Rappler panel on Thursday. He explained that the defense selectively highlights statements to counter the prosecution but overlooks the broader context.

Play Video

Cortez cited the 2016 memorandum circular from the Philippine National Police, which contextualizes Duterte’s repeated calls to “kill” during his tenure. 

“If you look at these statements in light of the other evidence, it will point to intent,” he said, adding that this evidence collectively supports the prosecution’s argument that Duterte intended targeted killings of alleged criminals.

Kaufman delivered the defense team’s opening remarks during the first day of the confirmation of charges hearing at the ICC on Monday, February 23. He takes center stage again on Thursday.

– Rappler.com