Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is seen on a screen in the courtroom of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands, Friday, March 14, 2025. Peter Dejong/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights
| Published March 31, 2025
The arrest of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on March 11 by the International Criminal Court (ICC) has triggered a wave of online abuse and disinformation targeting the families of drug war victims and human rights advocates. As Duterte faces charges of crimes against humanity over thousands of extrajudicial killings during his presidency, his supporters have taken to social media to discredit and harass those seeking justice.
A Digital Onslaught Against Victims’ Families
Sheerah Escudero, whose 18-year-old brother was killed in Duterte’s anti-drug campaign in 2017, has been bombarded with hateful messages online. Critics have accused her of lying about her brother’s death and labeled her a drug user. She is not alone. Many other families who lost loved ones in the bloody campaign are facing similar attacks, forcing them to relive their trauma while enduring digital harassment.
The National Union of People’s Lawyers (NUPL), which represents drug war victims, has condemned this coordinated disinformation effort. Kristina Conti, an ICC legal counsel assisting the victims, has been a particular target, facing sexist and violent threats designed to discredit her work.
The Rise of Disinformation
False narratives have flooded social media since Duterte’s arrest, spreading misleading claims, doctored images, and fabricated statements. Some falsely assert that international figures, including world leaders and celebrities, have denounced the ICC’s actions. Others have circulated fake videos of supposed mass protests in support of Duterte. According to the fact-checking initiative Tsek.ph, disinformation about Duterte’s arrest has eclipsed all other political misinformation in recent weeks.
Despite these online attacks, activists remain determined to counter the falsehoods. Human rights defenders, journalists, and social media users have mobilized to fact-check and debunk misinformation, leveraging platforms like TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) to ensure the truth reaches a wider audience.
The Fight for Justice Continues
The Philippine government has taken steps to work with social media companies to mitigate the spread of fake news. While Duterte’s arrest marks a historic moment for accountability, the battle for justice continues as families of victims and human rights advocates navigate both legal challenges and a digital war against disinformation.
As the ICC proceedings progress, the international community will be watching how the Philippines handles both Duterte’s case and the broader struggle for truth and justice in the country. The families of drug war victims, despite facing relentless online abuse, remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice for their loved ones.
SOURCES: REUTERS – After Duterte’s arrest, Philippine drug war victims face abuse and online falsehoods
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