The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands, has ruled that former Philippine President Rodrigo R. Duterte will remain in detention, denying his legal team's request for interim release. The decision was handed down by Trial Chamber III on Friday, May 22, 2026.
Defense Petition Rejected
Duterte's defense had petitioned for his temporary release, citing his advanced age and deteriorating health. However, the chamber concluded that the medical reports from three ICC-appointed experts did not contain sufficient evidence to warrant such a move.
Risk of Absconding
The court emphasized that Duterte's refusal to recognize the ICC's jurisdiction indicates a potential non-compliance with court orders. It stated, "Taken together with his access to vast resources and contacts, including his family and supporters in the Philippines who may assist him in evading justice, the Chamber finds that, notwithstanding the Defense's submissions regarding the Accused's health condition, there is a real and substantial risk that the Accused could nonetheless abscond or obstruct justice, either on his own or through his associates."
Health Considerations
The trial chamber noted that Duterte's physical condition and cognitive capacities do not outweigh the identified risks. His camp had argued that he suffers from frequent falls due to loss of balance and poor memory, making him incapable of instructing others to tamper with witnesses. However, the court remained unconvinced.
Duterte appeared before a Senate hearing on the campaign against illegal drugs under his administration in Pasay City on October 28, 2024, prior to his transfer to the ICC. The former president faces charges related to the deadly drug war that claimed thousands of lives during his tenure.
This ruling marks a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings, as Duterte remains in ICC custody while awaiting trial.
