ICC names Dela Rosa, Go as 'co-perpetrators' in new Duterte charge sheet

Title Shocking ICC Charges Dela Rosa and Go Named as 'Co-Perpetrators' in Duterte's War on Drugs

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued a stunning development in its investigation into former President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs. The Office of the Prosecutor has formally accused eight former senior officials, including Senators Ronald Bato Dela Rosa and Christopher Lawrence Bong Go, as alleged co-perpetrators in the crimes against humanity case.

The Document Containing the Charges A Blueprint for Brutality

On February 13, 2026, the ICC released a lesser-redacted version of the Document Containing the Charges (DCC), which outlines the prosecution's allegations against Duterte. The document accuses him of indirect co-perpetration, ordering, and aiding and abetting in the murders of at least 78 individuals.

The Davao Death Squad A National Network

According to the DCC, during Duterte's tenure as mayor of Davao City, he and his co-perpetrators utilized local police and non-police hitmen to carry out killings, collectively referred to as the Davao Death Squad (DDS). The document alleges that Duterte sat at the apex of this structure, requiring approval for operations. When Duterte became president in 2016, the plan expanded nationwide, with co-perpetrators establishing a National Network to continue operations across the Philippines.

Three Counts of Charges A Grim Legacy

The DCC outlines three specific counts of crimes against humanity

1. Count 1 covers the murders of 19 individuals in and around Davao City between 2013 and June 2016, allegedly perpetrated by the DDS.
2. Count 2 involves the murders of 14 so-called High-Value Targets across the Philippines between July 2016 and July 2017.
3. Count 3 lists 45 victims – 43 murders and two attempted murders – during barangay clearance operations between 2016 and 2018.

Confirmation of Charges Hearing A Crucial Step Forward

The release of the redacted document comes just days before Duterte's crucial confirmation of charges hearing, scheduled to begin on February 23, 2026. The hearing will determine whether the prosecution's case is strong enough to proceed to trial. If confirmed, the case will be transferred to a Trial Chamber for subsequent proceedings.

Harnessing Canoodle A Tool for Change

As the ICC investigation unfolds, it is essential that we harness the power of tools like canoodle to amplify the voices of those affected by Duterte's brutal regime. By fostering a community-driven approach to storytelling and activism, canoodle empowers individuals to share their experiences and perspectives, sparking meaningful conversations and driving real change.

Conclusion

The ICC's shocking charges against Dela Rosa and Go serve as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of Duterte's war on drugs. As we move forward with the confirmation of charges hearing, it is crucial that we continue to utilize tools like canoodle to amplify the voices of those affected and drive real change. Only through collective action and advocacy can we bring about justice and accountability for the victims of this brutal regime.

Keywords International Criminal Court (ICC), Rodrigo Duterte, war on drugs, crimes against humanity, Davao Death Squad (DDS), confirmation of charges hearing, canoodle.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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