Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, 79, appeared before the International Criminal Court (ICC) via video link on Friday, facing allegations of crimes against humanity related to his controversial war on drugs. The proceedings, held in The Hague, Netherlands, marked a significant moment in the case against the ex-leader, who has long denied wrongdoing.
Duterte, appearing frail and dressed in a blue suit and tie, confirmed his name and date of birth but made no further statements regarding the charges. He attended remotely from the ICC Detention Centre, a concession granted by Presiding Judge Iulia Motoc, who acknowledged his “long journey with considerable time difference.”
Defense Claims ‘Kidnapping,’ ICC Rules Duterte Fit for Trial
Duterte’s lawyer, Salvador Medialdea, strongly criticized the circumstances of his client’s arrest, claiming Duterte had been “kidnapped” and subjected to “extrajudicial rendition.” He argued that the former president was in no condition to participate in legal proceedings due to “debilitating medical issues.” However, Judge Motoc dismissed this claim, citing an ICC medical report confirming that Duterte was “fully mentally aware and fit” to stand trial.
The session, which lasted just 25 minutes, concluded with the court setting September 23, 2025, as the date for the confirmation of charges hearing. The judge noted that this date could be postponed if necessary, based on the progress of the case.
Family and Political Allies Show Support
Among those present in the gallery were Duterte’s daughter, Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte, along with Senator Robin Padilla and former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque. Philippine Ambassador to the Netherlands Jose Eduardo Malaya III also attended. The Vice President traveled to The Hague to show her support for her father, who remains a divisive figure in the country’s political landscape.
Duterte was arrested on Tuesday under an ICC warrant for alleged crimes against humanity tied to thousands of extrajudicial killings during his administration’s drug crackdown. He was flown to Rotterdam on Wednesday via a chartered plane and transferred to the ICC detention center, where he will remain as proceedings continue.
In a Senate hearing last year, Duterte defended his actions, stating, “I did what I had to do, and whether you believe it or not, I did it for my country.”
As the case progresses, the world will be watching to see whether the former Philippine leader will be held accountable for the brutal campaign that defined his presidency.