THE HAGUE – Protesters demanding justice for victims of alleged extrajudicial killings under former President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs staged a candlelight vigil and prayer ceremony on March 17 (March 18, PH time).
Chanting “Justice. Hustisya. Katarungan. Dutchgerechtigheid,” the demonstrators marched from the International Criminal Court (ICC) to the Hague Penitentiary Institution, where Duterte is currently detained as he awaits trial for crimes against humanity.
A Call for Justice
The protesters included Filipinos from the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, France, and the UK, representing groups such as Pinay sa Holland Gabriela, Bayan Europe, Migrante Netherlands, and Balik/Bayan NL.
Outside the detention center, speakers shared testimonies from families of alleged victims of Duterte’s drug war. Patricia Enriquez of Pinay in Holland Gabriela said they quickly organized the gathering upon learning of Duterte’s arrest and transfer to The Hague.
“We immediately organized to fight for the rights and call for justice for those who died under Duterte’s administration.”
She assured victims’ families in the Philippines that people abroad continue to fight for justice.
Duterte’s Arrest and ICC Case
Duterte was arrested on March 11 and transferred to ICC custody on March 12. He attended a court session via video link on March 14, where he was formally informed of the charges against him under the Rome Statute.
The next ICC hearing is scheduled for September 23, 2025 to confirm the charges.
Protesters to Sustain Efforts
Organizers vowed to continue their advocacy through forums and educational sessions to help the public understand the legal process and counter misinformation.
“We will create opportunities for people to understand the upcoming proceedings,” Enriquez said.
The ICC is investigating Duterte for crimes against humanity over the drug war deaths, which police records list at 6,000, though human rights groups estimate up to 30,000, including vigilante killings