Manila: The International Criminal Court (ICC) is not attempting to account for every death connected to the Duterte administration’s drug war but is instead focusing on establishing a pattern of systematic violence through verifiable cases, a prominent lawmaker stated on Thursday. This perspective was shared by House Assistant Majority Leader, Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre, who addressed concerns regarding the seemingly low number of cases cited by the ICC, emphasizing that the 43 cases are sufficient to demonstrate a systematic pattern of violence.

According to Philippines News Agency, Acidre elaborated on this viewpoint, stating, “This is not survey or statistics. In fact, only one case is needed for conviction. There is no need for a complicated equation to prove that there is a flawed system.” He further explained that the 43 cases were chosen based on the robustness of the evidence supporting them.

Acidre noted that if there are 43 cases with clear evidence indicating a singular method of violence, it is adequate to continue the investigation. He contended that centering on the number of cases is misleading and could be a deliberate effort to minimize the reality of systematic killings.

He reiterated that the ICC’s goal is not to compile statistics but to establish a pattern of violence and ensure accountability for those responsible. Acidre stressed that the focus should remain on justice and accountability rather than the quantity of cases.

Former president Rodrigo Duterte is facing an arrest warrant by the ICC for alleged crimes against humanity linked to his drug war, which he conducted from his time as mayor of Davao City through his presidency, spanning from November 1, 2011, to March 16, 2019. Duterte is currently detained at the ICC Detention Center in The Hague, Netherlands, and is scheduled to appear at the international chamber’s next hearing on September 23 to confirm his charges.