**The ICC Takes a Stand Against Duterte: Will Justice Be Served?** In a major development, the International Criminal Court (ICC) is set to hold a crucial hearing in the Netherlands to determine whether former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte should face trial for crimes against humanity. The hearing, scheduled to commence on Monday, marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for thousands of families affected by Duterte's notorious war on drugs. The hearing, known as the "confirmation of charges" phase, will assess whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a formal trial. Duterte, who was granted permission to waive his right to appear, will not be present at the hearing. The judges will have 60 days to issue a written decision following the four-day hearing. Duterte's crackdown on drugs, which resulted in an estimated 30,000 deaths, has left a trail of devastation in its wake. Families of victims and survivors are pinning their hopes on the ICC to bring the former president to justice. Llore Pasco, a mother who lost two sons to extrajudicial killings, expressed her emotions ahead of the hearing, saying, "This is the moment of truth. We are all hoping that the ICC and the judges will hear the cry of the victims." ICC prosecutors have charged Duterte with three counts of crimes against humanity, including his alleged involvement in at least 76 murders while he was mayor of Davao City and president of the Philippines. The charges cover a range of atrocities, from targeted killings of high-value targets to the systematic execution of low-level drug users and pushers. Duterte's lawyer has denied the charges, but the ICC's decision to pursue the case sends a strong message that no one is above the law, not even a former head of state. The hearing marks a critical step towards ensuring justice for the victims of the Philippines' war on drugs. As Luzviminda Siapo, a mother who lost her 19-year-old son, said, "I hope other perpetrators will also be brought to justice." The ICC's decision will have far-reaching implications for Nigeria and other countries grappling with similar issues of human rights abuses and impunity. It serves as a reminder that the international community will not tolerate gross human rights violations and that those responsible will be held accountable. As the ICC hearing commences, the world watches with bated breath, eager to see if justice will be served for the victims of Duterte's war on drugs. Will the ICC uphold the