Press Release: 9/24/2025

Markey Applauds International Criminal Court's Announcement of Crimes Against Humanity Charges Against Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte

 

Boston (September 24, 2025) - Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today released the following statement regarding the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) announcement of charges against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte for crimes against humanity committed under his so-called “War on Drugs.”

“The ICC’s announcement is an important step toward justice and accountability for Rodrigo Duterte’s bloody campaign of extrajudicial killings and systematic human rights violations. For years, I have condemned Duterte’s crimes, pressed for the release of political prisoners like Senator Leila de Lima, and stood with the brave journalists like Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa who dared to tell the truth. My outspoken advocacy led Duterte to ban me from entering the Philippines, but intimidation has never silenced me and will not silence the cause of justice.

“The message from The Hague is clear: No leader is above the law. While justice may have been delayed, it cannot be permanently denied. To every current or aspiring dictator, take note: Sooner or later, your crimes will catch up with you. The international community is watching, brave advocates are keeping record, and accountability will come.

“The people of the Philippines deserve a democracy rooted in the rule of law, in human rights, and in freedom of speech.”

Senator Markey has led and supported numerous congressional efforts advocating for the release of political prisoners and promoting human rights and democracy in the Philippines. Last year, Senators Markey, Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) celebrated Senator Leila de Lima being cleared of the third and final charge against her. Additionally, Senators Markey and Durbin, along with Senators Marco Rubio (R-Fl.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), and Chris Coons (D-Del.), introduced abipartisan resolution that raised human rights concerns in the Philippines, and specifically noted the cases of Senator de Lima and Maria Ressa, a journalist for the news outlet Rappler that has been the target of government harassment.