ICC prosecution files witness testimonies on Duterte’s involvement in Oplan Double Barrel, ‘PRRD List’

MANILA — Prosecutors at the International Criminal Court (ICC) have asked judges to admit the previously recorded testimonies of witnesses in the crimes against humanity case against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, citing their accounts of alleged extrajudicial killings and a policy of targeting suspected criminals through violence.

In a public redacted filing, prosecutors sought to introduce the statements of witnesses identified as P-1087, P-1151, P-1158, P-1161, and P-1204, along with supporting documents, under Rule 68(3) of the ICC’s Rules of Procedure and Evidence.

The prosecution said the testimonies primarily concern the contextual elements of crimes against humanity, particularly the alleged policy to “neutralise” suspected criminals through violent crimes, including murder, in the Philippines.

Detailed insights provided by the witnesses outline core components of the state’s anti-drug campaign:

– Witness P-1087 provides an overview of police operations, expresses skepticism regarding the veracity of official Philippine National Police (PNP) reports on killings, and details how impunity and a culture of violence were normalized through Duterte’s public rhetoric and official lists.

– Witness P-1151 outlines PNP-perpetrated killings, the implementation of “Operation Double Barrel,” a monetary reward system for police officers involved in killings, and Duterte’s appointment of key personnel alongside public statements encouraging violence.

– Witnesses P-1158 and P-1161 provide structural details and general evidence regarding police operations, Duterte’s involvement with the “PRRD list,” and related enforcement dynamics.

– Witness P-1204 describes internal operational changes within the PNP following Duterte’s assumption of the presidency, outlining patterns that mirrored similar violent incidents across jurisdictions.

Prosecutors argued that the testimonies are relevant, reliable, and probative, and that admitting them in written form alongside streamlined supplementary examinations would help expedite the proceedings and avoid unnecessary court hours.

“The introduction of the Witnesses’ Prior Recorded Testimonies into evidence is not prejudicial to, or inconsistent with, the rights of the Accused,” the prosecution said in the filing.

The prosecution added that the testimonies are cumulative or corroborative of evidence expected from other witnesses who will testify in court. It also argued that the defense would retain the opportunity to challenge the evidence by cross-examining the witnesses, presenting contradictory evidence, and contesting the weight given to the recorded testimonies.

The request remains subject to the judges’ decision. 

Duterte is facing charges of crimes against humanity in connection with his administration’s anti-drug campaign. The allegations cited in the prosecution’s filing remain allegations and must be assessed through the court proceedings.