Duterte’s ICC Arrest Sparks Online Attacks, Misinformation Surge

The arrest of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on March 11, 2025, has triggered a wave of online harassment targeting victims’ families and human rights advocates. Duterte, accused of crimes against humanity for thousands of extrajudicial killings during his brutal war on drugs, is now in The Hague awaiting trial.

Sheerah Escudero, whose 18-year-old brother was killed in 2017, said her Facebook account has been flooded with abuse, with users calling her a liar and drug addict. Other grieving families and legal advocates report similar harassment, including death threats. Human rights lawyer Kristina Conti warned that Duterte supporters may be attempting to intimidate witnesses to derail the ICC trial.

Social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok have seen a surge in disinformation, including fake quote cards, false claims about ICC jurisdiction, and even fabricated support from fictional characters like Elle Woods from Legally Blonde. Paid ads on Facebook promoting Duterte—some without proper political disclaimers—have reached millions, despite Meta’s stated efforts to curb misinformation.

Tsek.ph, a Philippine fact-checking coalition, identified over 200 coordinated Facebook pages spreading false narratives. Some falsely claimed that U.S. President Donald Trump threatened tariffs unless Duterte was released. Analysts say the tactics echo Duterte’s 2016 election campaign, which relied heavily on trolls and coordinated digital propaganda.

Despite risks, activists are pushing back. Carlos Conde of Human Rights Watch launched a TikTok channel to counter misinformation and educate the public about the ICC case. The Philippine government claims it is working with social platforms to combat fake news.

Escudero, though fearful for her safety, remains committed to justice. “We will let the truth speak and be seen,” she said.