Philippine authorities investigate fake news surrounding ICC case against Duterte

18th March 2025 – (Manila) The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) has launched an investigation into misinformation and fake social media posts circulating in connection with the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) case against former president Rodrigo Duterte.

PNP Information Chief Col. Randulf Tuaño revealed during a press conference on Monday that the PNP is addressing concerns about misleading content, including memes and fake news targeting Duterte. These materials have been forwarded to PNP-ACG Chief Brig. Gen. Bernard Yang for appropriate action.

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro confirmed during a Palace briefing that the PCO is working closely with the PNP and the National Bureau of Investigation to identify and act against those spreading fake news related to the ICC case.

Tuaño reported that authorities have monitored at least 58 rallies involving approximately 49,000 participants, primarily in Davao City, Duterte’s hometown. He noted that the demonstrations were brief, generally lasting one to two hours, and dispersed peacefully.

Security measures remain in place to ensure public order, although the heightened alert status imposed on 11th March, following Duterte’s arrest, has been lifted. Authorities have no immediate plans to reinstate it.

Duterte was arrested on 11th March at a Manila airport upon his return from Hong Kong under an ICC-issued warrant for alleged crimes against humanity tied to his controversial anti-drug campaign. The warrant was executed by the Philippine National Police in coordination with Interpol Manila.

Following his arrest, Duterte was transferred to the ICC Detention Centre in Scheveningen, The Hague, Netherlands, where he arrived on 12th March. He made his initial court appearance via video link on 14th March.

The ICC has scheduled a hearing for 23rd September to determine whether the charges against Duterte will proceed.