The air in The Hague was biting cold.
But no one moved.
On one side of the street stood families of drug war victims — bundled in thick coats, hands trembling not just from the weather, but from memory. On the other side were supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte — waving flags, holding banners, standing firm.
Between them stood the International Criminal Court.
Inside, the ICC pre-trial chamber began the Confirmation of Charges hearings against Duterte. Outside, two groups waited — each carrying a different kind of pain. Each holding on to a different kind of hope.
According to a report on 24 Oras, relatives of the victims marched toward the ICC building despite the freezing temperature. They carried placards. They held a small program. And through it all, they followed the proceedings through a livestream — eyes fixed on their phones, listening for every word.
For them, this was not just a legal hearing.
It was personal.
They are calling on the ICC to confirm the charges. They want accountability — not only for Duterte, but for anyone allegedly involved in extrajudicial killings during the administration’s anti-drug campaign.
Justice, they say, has been a long time coming.
Across from them, Duterte’s supporters gathered with a permit secured in advance. They held their own program outside the court. A cardboard standee of the former president stood among them — a silent symbol of loyalty.
During a brief lunchtime program, they made one thing clear: this was not a protest.
It was a show of support.
They expressed hope that the ICC would dismiss the charges. They prayed for his vindication. Some wiped away tears. Others raised their fists in quiet solidarity.
Two crowds.
One courthouse.
Completely different prayers.
As the hearings moved forward inside, emotions remained steady outside — restrained, but powerful.
The gatherings are expected to continue until the session ends at 3 p.m., The Hague time.
And until then, in the cold streets of a foreign city, Filipinos stand divided — waiting for a decision that could shape history.
