MANILA — A majority of Filipinos believe that former President Rodrigo Duterte should be held accountable for the extrajudicial killings carried out during his administration’s violent war on drugs, according to the latest Social Weather Stations survey.

Conducted from February 15 to 19, the survey found that 51 percent of Filipinos think Duterte should be held responsible for the drug-related deaths under his leadership, while 25 percent disagree.

14 percent of respondents remained undecided, while 10 percent admitted they lacked sufficient knowledge to form an opinion.

The survey gathered insights from over 1,800 respondents across the country and was commissioned by the Stratbase Group.

Despite being considered a Duterte stronghold, the Visayas recorded the highest level of support for holding the former president accountable for extrajudicial killings, with 62 percent in favor. Meanwhile, in Mindanao, 47 percent of respondents shared the same view, according to SWS.

According to the survey, public backing for Duterte to answer for his actions stood at 60% in Northern Luzon, 49% in Balance Luzon, 48% in Central Luzon, 45% in the National Capital Region, and 44% in Southern Luzon.

Agreement was higher in rural areas, with 52% of respondents in favor, compared to 48% in urban areas.

Stratbase Group President Dindo Manhit stated that the findings indicate most Filipinos seek accountability. He emphasized that holding government leaders accountable is not about political vendetta but about the need to uphold justice in the country.

Duterte is currently detained at the International Criminal Court’s facility in The Hague, Netherlands. He is facing charges of crimes against humanity, specifically murder, in connection with the alleged killings carried out during his violent drug war.

The former president appeared before the ICC via video link on March 14. A confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled for September 23, 2025.

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