Neri Colmenares and Kristina Conti in The Hague: Two Filipino Lawyers Stand for Drug War Victims at Duterte’s ICC Hearing

As the International Criminal Court began its confirmation of charges hearing against former President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, two Filipino lawyers were there to make sure the victims’ voices were heard: human rights lawyer Neri Colmenares and fellow attorney Kristina Conti.

Colmenares confirmed in a radio interview that he and Conti are in The Hague representing victims under the Rise Up for Life and for Rights network. For security reasons, the identities of other Filipino victim representatives who may be present have not been publicly disclosed.

‘Only two known representatives of the victims’ families are here with us,’ Colmenares said, adding that other victims have filed separate complaints with their own legal teams who may also participate in the four-day proceedings.

Colmenares expressed confidence that the pre-trial hearing would proceed without delay. The ICC has already granted Duterte’s motion to waive his right to appear during the hearing — meaning the former president won’t physically be in the courtroom while charges are being confirmed.

For the families of the thousands who died in the drug war, this moment has been years in the making. Having Filipino lawyers physically present in The Hague sends a powerful message: the victims have not been forgotten, and justice — kahit matagal — is finally being pursued.

Source: The Manila Times