The preliminary hearing against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has commenced at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, where he faces charges of crimes against humanity, including murder and attempted murder in 78 cases. Duterte, who did not appear personally, has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them an "outrageous lie." Prosecutors are presenting evidence related to deadly operations against alleged drug dealers during his presidency and prior tenure as mayor of Davao City. The ICC initiated preliminary investigations in 2018, and despite the Philippines' withdrawal from the court, it asserted jurisdiction and launched official investigations in September 2021. A decision on whether to proceed to a full trial is anticipated in May, with human rights organizations estimating that Duterte's anti-drug campaign resulted in up to 30,000 deaths.