Allies of Philippines’ Duterte Step Up Online Attacks as Drug War Trial Looms

Allies of Philippines’ Duterte Step Up Online Attacks as Drug War Trial Looms

As judges in The Hague consider whether former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte’s crimes against humanity case should proceed to trial, a parallel battle over the narrative has taken hold online. Prosecutors at the International Criminal Court (ICC) have accused Duterte of overseeing a campaign of extrajudicial killings linked to his signature 'war on drugs.'

Rights groups say the campaign left thousands dead during his 2016-2022 presidency, allegations he has repeatedly denied. Analysts warn that a coordinated network of supporters is working to reshape public perception and portray Duterte as a victim. Over the past 10 days, that effort has crystallised around three strands: undermining the ICC itself, targeting victims and witnesses, and normalising mockery of the dead.

Images of victims of alleged extrajudicial killings during the term of former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte are laid out during a rally in Quezon City in November 2024. Photo: EPA-EFE